Reflections of an_informal_learner
- 1. Reflections of an Informal Learner In a mobile environment
- 2. Outline Introduction My experiences as an informal learner What I have learned What next? Conclusion
- 3. Introduction U of M certificate on Emerging Technologies for Learning Acquisition of a smartphone to explore during Mobile Learning course What is mobile learning? It is learning on the go – not tied to a specific location It can be either informal or formal It can be on a number of different platforms
- 4. My experiences My smartphone is a Blackberry Minimal applications available to date for formal learning, esp when compared with other platforms My workplace is a long way from adopting any mobile learning technologies
- 5. My experiences con’t Best use of Blackberry for me is in my role as an informal learner When advising the development of training, I can always continue to ask how mobile tools might be used, even if in an informal way
- 6. What have I learned? Email access is excellent Browser capability has both pros and cons: Pros: Mobility – anywhere, any time Many free applications are available Cons: Minimal apps – no flash, etc Some useful applications cost extra
- 7. What have I learned? con’t Internet Apps I have found useful: New sites such as Globe & Mail, CBC, CTV Travel information: maps, weather, highway reports Sports updates – can watch the Blue Jays play by play, TSN Wine matcher – matches food with wine Social networking – facebook & twitter
- 8. What have I learned? con’t Built in devices such as camera and video Documents to go: Free version just allows text editing Premium version enables new slides, etc
- 9. Other Mobile Devices Just purchased a 10” netbook Much more practical for formal learning Lightweight, easily portable, Con: requires wifi whereas smartphone has direct access to email and internet
- 10. What next? Keep in touch with new apps that are available Look for ways to promote emerging technologies for learning within the workplace Continue to use the technology myself as an informal and formal learner
- 11. Conclusion Mobile devices are here to stay so they may as well be harnessed for learning