Description: M-Learning, or mobile learning, refers to a form of education that takes place through mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. This mode of learning allows users to access educational content anytime and anywhere, thus facilitating flexibility and personalization in the learning process. M-Learning is characterized by its interactivity, as mobile devices offer various applications and platforms that enable communication between students and educators, as well as access to multimedia resources. Additionally, M-Learning integrates with technologies such as geolocation and augmented reality, enriching the educational experience. Its relevance has grown exponentially in the last decade, driven by the proliferation of mobile devices and the need for more accessible and adaptive teaching methods. In an increasingly digital world, M-Learning presents an innovative solution to overcome the limitations of traditional learning, allowing students to learn at their own pace and according to their individual needs.
History: The concept of M-Learning began to take shape in the late 1990s when the first mobile devices were used for educational purposes. However, it was in the 2000s that the term ‘M-Learning’ became popular, coinciding with the rise of smartphones and Internet connectivity. In 2005, the term was widely discussed at conferences and academic publications, leading to increased interest in its research and application. As mobile technology continued to evolve, M-Learning expanded to include a variety of platforms and applications, becoming an integral part of modern education.
Uses: M-Learning is used in various areas, including formal and informal education, corporate training, and self-directed learning. In the educational field, it allows students to access online courses, participate in discussion forums, and take assessments through their mobile devices. In the corporate context, it is used for employee training, offering training modules that can be completed at any time. Additionally, M-Learning is useful for language learning, where mobile applications provide interactive exercises and multimedia resources.
Examples: An example of M-Learning is the Duolingo app, which allows users to learn languages through interactive lessons on their mobile devices. Another case is the Coursera platform, which offers online courses accessible from smartphones and tablets, enabling students to learn at their own pace. Additionally, many educational institutions have developed mobile applications that allow students to access course materials, communicate with instructors, and participate in academic activities from anywhere.
