Impact of Mobile Learning on Student Performance at UAEU
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) initiated its first step towards Mobile Learning back in April 2012, with the introduction of iPad initiative across all three Federal higher education institutions. UAEU continues to innovate in digital learning, implementing mobile learning in several courses in its degree programs.
What are the motives behind this initiative? In the process of alignment with the 21st Century Educational Framework, UAEU is focusing on curricula and pedagogies that infuse the 4 C’s skills (Creativity, Critical thinking, Communication and Collaboration), to inspire learning and increase student motivation, engagement and performance.
But how can the effectiveness of a Mobile Learning Approach be measured? Some instructors at UAEU have measured this by conducting an experiment. Dr Yazid Benchabane and Dr Khaled Hamdan divided their group of foundation students – 1280 in all – into two groups, one using the conventional classroom approach and the other using Mobile Learning. They compared attitudes and performance levels of the two groups of students.
The findings showed that mobile learning contributes significantly to the students’ learning experience, in comparison to traditional methods. Students in the mobile learning group were more engaged in their learning, took more responsibility for their learning, participated in designing assessments, and personalized their learning.
This modification to the traditional learning process had a direct impact on students’ creativity and critical thinking skills, in addition to enabling them to communicate more effectively.
Mohammad Kittaneh, a foundation student at UAEU said, “Mobile devices do not replace a teacher but they provide amazing visualization. I find it made our work easier, and improved the motivation and communication within my group. I learned many new methods of obtaining information using the iPad. The 21st century is the era of technology. We need m-learning!”
The study also found that the students were more optimistic about the effectiveness of mobile learning than their teachers. Students perceived that the mobile learning approach helped them to achieve more skills.
There was a caveat, however. It was found that, if mobile learning is not implemented well, it can lead to isolation among students, rather than collaboration. The experiment also revealed that introducing new technologies will be of real benefit only if the mode of delivery, content design, assessment systems, and professional development are properly addressed.
According to a student information literacy survey that was conducted as part of the study, students are mostly inspired by their teachers and how the teacher uses the content. The survey also highlighted the fact that teachers are no longer the sole source of information; students typically depend on Google, Youtube and other online resources.
Even though the teacher is key to learning, the traditional didactic teaching style is no longer effective. New pedagogies must be developed and new forms of content must be created – and students must be taught how to access and evaluate information.
The faculty and instructors from United Arab Emirates University will be presenting their findings at the upcoming iCelebrate conference, which is being held in collaboration with the other two federal institutions and Apple. It will take place at HCT’s Dubai Mens’ College later this week. Other presentations by UAEU will include: Rethink How Students Should Learn Using Mobile Approach to Learning; Getting the ibooks Project off the Ground; and A Brief Journey into the World of ibook Widgets.
