Designing Digitally
05/26/2020
The best feature of mobile apps is in their name- they are mobile
The face of learning is changing. We're systematically and consistently taking a 100-year-old system and digitizing it with each passing day. A lot of traditional classroom courses are supplemented by some form of online or mobile learning, or even replaced. And, many people take their learning experience into their own hands by browsing for information that complements what they're learning in traditional settings.
While web learning and computer-based learning have been at the forefront of this phenomenon, an underdog is making its way to the top of the eLearning food chain - mobile learning. Considering the fact that most of us own a handheld device nowadays, it stands to reason that we use these digital tools for personal and professional growth.
Mobile learning, also termed mLearning, is a form of eLearning that requires the learner to own a mobile device. Through the use of this physical tool, the learner can access a multiple-context learning experience that combines social learning and self-paced learning.
As an mLearner, you can use your mobile phone, tablet, notebook, or any other wireless device with a screen. You are free to learn in your own time, at your own speed, and by accessing the platform you are most familiar with. Thus, using mobile apps for employee training puts the right information in the hands of the right people, at the right time.
Read also: Different Ways to Use Smartphones and Tablets for Employee Training
Most of us use mobile devices on a daily basis and some of us even interact with these mini-computers more than with a laptop or desktop. It makes sense, then, that mobile learning can become a very powerful tool if used for 'good.'
Make Learning Fun
Gamification and game-based learning combine learning through play with valuable learning content. Developing mobile applications that use these types of teaching methods will keep learners excited and engaged with the course.
Anytime/Anywhere Learning
The best feature of mobile apps is in their name- they are mobile. This means that employees can access the training course anytime they want and from any device. Mobile training apps allow for both synchronous and asynchronous learning, so the trainer and classmates don't need to be online for the learner to engage with the course in an enriching, meaningful way.
Instant Progress Tracking
Educational mobile apps usually offer some form of progress tracking. Learners are able to gauge their performance in real-time. Tracking allows employee learners to see how they are advancing through the course and what things they need to review to gain a better understanding of the key concepts presented in the course.
Read also: Developing a Mobile Learning Solution That Embraces Anytime Anywhere Learning eBook
Self-Directed Learning
Mobile training apps are very empowering since they give the learner the option of guiding their own learning experience as they see fit.
Flexibility
Mobile training renders flexibility to learners. They no longer 'have to' learn something but rather they 'can' learn whatever they want, whenever they want to.
Read also: The Importance of Anytime Anywhere Learning in the Modern Workplace
Highly Engaging
Mobile learning apps source their format and duration on the learner's usage and interaction with the application. Engagement is high because of this personalized approach to mobile learning creation.
Based on User Preferences
It's your phone, ergo, your preferences say a lot about how you like to interact with mobile apps.
Speaks to the Growing Millennial Workforce
Millennials love technology and pride themselves with being tech-savvy workers. Thus, implementing a mobile training app within your workplace learning culture will yield great benefits.
Instant Support
If you have access to a mobile device, you should have access to instant support from peers, trainers, and other people in your organization. This creates a support system for mobile learners to lean on whenever they need help.
Instant Feedback
The same goes for feedback. Regardless of whether you use asynchronous learning more than synchronous learning, a mobile training course should give instant feedback about your performance, outline the things you need to improve on, and provide answers to your questions.
Fast Performance Increase
The just-in-time quality of mobile training apps allows learners to practice as many times as needed, absent the fear of failure. This generally results in a faster increase in performance, since learners are able to instantly and directly apply what they learn by completing day-to-day job tasks.
Case Study: Maximizing the Value of Your Mobile Learning App
Mobile learning apps are the ultimate just-in-time, self-directed, self-assessment, and growth-mentality tool. Any organization can design and create a mobile learning experience today, with the help of eLearning professionals and instructional designers. Get in touch to learn more about whether your company can benefit from implementing mobile learning into your L&D culture. You can also ask for a free quote or head on to our blog for valuable insights into the world of eLearning.
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