Active learning with Mobile and Web 2.0 technologies
Lilian Soon1, David Sugden2
1xlearn, United Kingdom, 2Village e-Learning Consultancy, United Kingdom
Background:Both presenters are independent e-Learning enthusiasts, well known throughout the F.E. System and amongst the H.E. and F.E. mobile learning community. They work extensively around the country supporting teaching and learning-support colleagues in their development of pedagogically sound ‘e’ and ‘m’ learning strategies and resources. This work is now beginning to take hold and changes in the way both learners and teaching staff are using SMS text for instance, is becoming more evident. Both presenters have worked with the Learning and Skills Network (LSN) to support the national MoLeNET projects (http://www.molenet.org.uk) during 2007-09, with Learning for Living and Work projects (http://inclusivity.rsc-yh.ac.uk – a JISC RSC initiative) and contributed to JISC Techdis and LSN publications. The ideas presented in this workshop are being used successfully by tutors across the UK.Ideas to be explored:In this workshop, we will explore the use of mobile devices and services to create learning and assessment opportunities as well as resources. Participants will be given the chance to experience mobile learning with reference to sound theoretical paradigms.They will consider how to:Engage learners using the learner’s own skills and awareness.Encourage learners to be creators of resources.Maximise the learning and assessment potential of the mobile devices in their learners’ pockets.Furthermore, they will explore Web 2.0 facilities that interface with mobile devices.Intended Outcomes for participants:Those attending this workshop will experience activities aimed at engaging learners. They will work through a series of tasks, including the creation of podcasts on the fly; correspondence with communities of practice through micro-blogging; using SMS to evaluate prose; creating SMS activities that stimulate higher order thinking; looking at quizzes on mobile devices and exploring other ways of using gadgets and activities to engage and illuminate learners. The use of QR codes will be explored. Participants are encouraged to use their own mobile phones for the activities.Regular reflection opportunities using Twitter will allow the participants to consider how the ideas and activities could change their own practice and the benefits this would bring.no references included