Mobile learning has been on the rise for many years but is even more important in times such as these. With virtually the whole world living within reach of a mobile cellular network and having Internet access, mobile technology has become an increasingly powerful tool in the learning sector. It is a rapidly growing field, as evidenced by the increasing variety of research topics, methods and researchers, and studies have shown it to have many benefits such as facilitating context-based learning, cultivating self-regulated learning and self-reflection, and fostering cross-cultural interaction.[1]
ISO/IEC TS 29140, Information technology for learning, education and training – Nomadicity and mobile technologies, provides a learner information model specific to mobile learning to enable learning, education and training environments to reflect the distinctive needs of mobile participants. This technical specification has just been updated, with new terms, definitions and use cases added to make it more relevant to today’s learning environment.
Prof. Mohamed Ally of Athabasca University, Canada, who is the Project Leader of the group of experts that developed the document, said mobile learning has the potential to provide learners with enhanced access to information and learning materials, as well as guidance and support from anywhere rather than from a specific geographical location at a certain time.
“When mobile learning is implemented thoughtfully and well, it can increase efficiency and productivity of learning, education and training within different sectors,” he said.
ISO/IEC TS 29140 was developed by ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 36, Information technology for learning, education and training, a joint technical subcommittee of ISO and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Its secretariat is held by KATS, ISO’s member for Korea. This technical specification can be purchased from your national ISO member or the ISO Store.