Mlearning, or mobile learning, can easily be confused with elearning. Both types allow learning to happen remotely. They also require an Internet connection so the users can access the course. There are so many similarities between them but you need to realize that mlearning is actually one form elearning.
You can simply differentiate the two by looking at the device by which they are accessed. Elearning requires either a desktop or a laptop. Mobile learning can be accessed by using a mobile device like smartphones or a tablet. Laptops may be mobile but only to a certain extent. You still need a place where you can be stationary so you can comprehend the lesson well. Smartphones and tablets literally allow you to absorb the course even while you are on-the-go.
Now the differences between the two is important because it will give you insight about how they should be used. Specifically, you can determine when to use mlearning and when you should use elearning.
Here are tips that will help you understand the best use for both.
Purpose
Elearning is best used when there is an intention to teach a specific skill that requires in-depth explanation or concepts. Anything that needs to be analyzed and requires concentration has to be done through elearning courses. The key objective of this type of learning is retention. A higher retention rate should force the learner to focus.
Mlearning is best for courses that need to be accessed as they are needed. For instance, mobile learning can be used by sales representatives – so they can learn about new products enroute to their next appointment. They can even use that same course to present to their clients. Any course that can be used when it is needed and while the learner is on the go should utilize mobile learning.
Duration
This is an important consideration when you are choosing between the two. If you can slash your course into bite-sized modules, then you know that you can use mlearning instead of elearning. But if the course really needs more than 10 minutes for it to be clearly understood, then you are stuck with an elearning format. You have to remember that mobile learning are accessed by people who are on the go. If you make the lesson too long, you will lose their attention and you could compromise the learning experience of the learner.
Design
You also have to consider the design of your course. Some lessons require complex graphics to best illustrate a point. If this is true in your case, then you also need to stick with elearning. Mobile learning is done through a small screen. If you cannot show the graphics well, then the learning would be a failure. While the screen in mobile learning is small, you need large buttons for navigation because the learners will be using their fingers to click and browse through the screen. A mouse cursor requires a smaller space in the screen. Think about the design requirements of your course before you decide if you are better off with elearning or mlearning.
Device
We’ve mentioned that elearning uses either a desktop or a laptop while mobile learning opts for the smaller smartphones and tablets. This is not the only way that a device could dictate if you should use elearning or mlearning. You need to consider the availability of the device as well. If there is only one computer available for a class of college students, it may be difficult for students to learn through elearning. But since most of them have a smartphones, the instructor can convert the elearning course into mobile learning so everyone can use their own devices and thus be able to learn all at the same time.
Learners
FInally, you will know what you should use between the two by considering who your learners are. Here’s the truth. Older people, or at least those who grew up without computers, are more patient. You can count on them to complete the more lengthy elearning course without getting bored.
On the other hand, the younger generation may be more used to learning through their mobile phones or tablets because of their short attention span. Not only that, they grew up with social media. Utilizing this platform in the learning process should give your learners with an interesting and engaging experience.
Take note that there are lessons that will allow you to use both elearning and mlearning. You can use the former for the main lessons and discussions. But when it comes to the activities or any “take home” quizzes or projects, you can use the latter.
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