including mobile phones and hand held devices to enhance the learning
process” (m-learning). It describes ‟the new possibilities that are available to
people given the mass deployment of devices that everyone has in their
hands and the new connectivity‟s that are coming‟.
The promotion of hand-held learning devices has a background of more
than four years of research and development. It has subsequently helped
thousands of learners from different backgrounds to develop their skills,
confidence and motivation to learn (m-learning).
In an examination of the potential of m-Learning use within the workplace,
the study found that mobile learning resources inspired employees to
suggest ‟new ideas for the incorporation of technology in the workplace,
including education and interpretation programs‟ (Australian Flexible
Learning Framework). These results supported the argument that
participants‟ interest levels in m-Learning were extremely high, and allowed
them to take responsibility for their own learning and development.
Academics are now beginning to acknowledge the importance of mLearning. For example, the “new generation” of young individuals or the
present and future participants of e-Learning interventions, has been
described by one professor as ‟always on, one handed texting, instant
messaging and multi-tasking‟. If then this new generation are so fascinated
by the latest in technological advancements, then this revelation can be
seen as a huge opportunity for learning to be introduced in a mobile context.
As “mobile” implies that the technology is wirelessly connected, this means
that learners are not restricted to one learning environment. People want to
have as much control over their own learning as possible and m-Learning
allows them to access information anywhere and at anytime.