Technology advancements have significantly improved what and how much knowledge is shared with learners around the world. The use of learning technologies has increased dramatically during the past few years, including mLearning and eLearning. Nearly every employee has a smartphone that they utilize while at work. Due to its convenience, people choose to use mobile phones to browse the web rather than laptops or desktop computers. However, we all take for granted the capacities of portable devices. You can access an enhanced learning environment using your mobile devices.
Similarly, you may use mobile technologies to make exciting and useful learning content available on your employees’ phones. The way we use mobile devices to consume content has changed along with technology. Employers all across the world are starting to see the benefits of mLearning or learning that takes place on mobile devices. Although the two names can be used to refer to a type of learning that is offered outside of the mainstream, there are important distinctions between the two.
Here you can learn everything you need to know about mLeaning.
In this article, we’ll examine the distinctions between eLearning and mobile learning as well as what each of these terms entails.
What is eLearning?
The process of learning and instructing through digital media is known as electronic learning or eLearning. Learners can consume the learning online material at any time and from anywhere thanks to eLearning, which actually occurs through the web. In terms of eLearning, synchronous learning and asynchronous learning are the two main categories. Synchronous learning is defined as learning that takes place in real-time while the instructor and learners are engaging. Platforms like discussion forums, video chats, and virtual classrooms are used for this. On the other hand, asynchronous learning can take place offline or online. It entails the delivery of coursework through mediums like mail, websites, podcasts, and discussion forums. This gives learners the opportunity for self-directed learning.
What is mLearning?
Learning using mobile devices is referred to as mobile learning or mLearning. Mobile gadgets like mobile phones and tablets are included in this. M-learning primarily focuses on how mobile learners may be while utilizing mobile technologies. The fundamental benefit of mobile learning is that it is accessible almost everywhere. When using the same information, sharing occurs very instantly, which enables users to receive feedback and advice right away.
mLearning programs generally have simple interfaces and uncomplicated navigation. As a result, it lacks complex graphics or detailed information. Information is organized into smaller sections, typically with one main idea per screen. mLearning provides learners with access to a variety of information, including video content, photos, and audio. Additionally, a module’s learning time is brief, usually falling between 3 and 10 mins. M-learning can be blended with eLearning, even though there are some key differences between the two.
Difference between eLearning and mLearning
It is crucial for both the learner and the organizations providing the necessary courses and programs to understand the differences between eLearning and mLearning training. Numerous factors are at play when evaluating the two instructional techniques. The following are some of the main characteristics that set these two cutting-edge technologies apart:
Definition
eLearning is short for electronic learning. It’s used to describe a type of education in which lessons are provided online using computers and other digital devices. A video conference system or online learning management system (LMS) can be used to facilitate this type of learning.
mLearning, on the other hand, stands for mobile learning. The phrase essentially refers to a style of training in which pupils are provided with knowledge via mobile or portable devices. As it is evident, eLearning and mLearning both use digital communication to deliver instruction.
The gap in Time Between Evaluations
While using eLearning methods, there is typically a long delay between the dissemination of information and the application of real-world solutions in assessments. Its format is longer and broader because evaluations or assessments could be administered within weeks or months after learning.
When learning using the mLearning approach, a learner is typically compelled to make quick choices and implement solutions. Some modules even take a few minutes to complete. mLearning reduces the time between learning new information and using it. Business executives mostly adopt this method of instruction to gauge their staff members’ general knowledge of a subject or conceptual framework for a task.
Mode of Delivery
The main platforms for delivering eLearning are desktops and laptops. Additionally, it makes use of the web and might use video conferencing tools or software. These digital platforms allow instructors to host quick workshops and engage with learners through real-time, full-HD video and audio conferencing. An instructor or trainer can provide instruction to groups of learners from all over the world at once using such platforms. Through the sharing of text, images, audio, and video files, learners can learn using this video conferencing program. eLearning platform users are typically limited to their workstations.
In mLearning, learners gain access to training material on their smartphones and/or devices. Messages or a particular site can be used to provide learning instructions. Learners can effectively access the curriculum using mobile platforms like Android, Microsoft, and iOS.
Duration of Learning
In addition to having more complex graphics, eLearning programs are made to assist learners to focus for long periods of time. The scope of the courses covered by this type of learning also tends to be wider. Although it is advised that lessons or learning sessions go no more than 20 to 30 minutes, those who are developing eLearning programs should keep this in mind.
However, mLearning solutions are made for smartphone users and business learners who have a restricted amount of time to learn. The designer of mLearning courses should break up their course into bite-sized chunks that last between 3 and 10 minutes. Videos can be sent using an eLearning system, but they shouldn’t last longer than three minutes.
Purpose
eLearning is primarily intended to provide learners with specialized skills or in-depth knowledge about a certain subject or field. For instance, eLearning can be useful for teaching learners how to use technology, perform experimental tests, or create organizational policies. In essence, eLearning adopts a professional, organized, and time-limited framework of instruction.
On the other hand, mLearning provides learners with compressed information in order to assist a continuous learning process. When the instructor wishes to pass along a to-do list or some short but crucial details about a specific topic, this way of learning may be ideal. As a result, it might be viewed as a type of context-sensitive, on-demand training delivery.
Bottom Line
In a nutshell, mLearning occurs on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, whereas eLearning occurs on desktop and laptop computers.
The differences between eLearning and mLearning are significant, but as this article has shown, it does not necessarily mean one is superior to the other. In reality, mLearning can be used in conjunction with eLearning to enhance the delivery of courses. However, it may be preferable to choose the more consistent of the two if you want to employ a more systematic approach to learning or training.
