Implementing Web-based Learning and Teaching Using Mobile Technology

Web-based learning refers to the type of learning that uses the Internet as an
instructional delivery tool to carry out various learning activities. It can take the form of (1) a pure online learning in which the curriculum and learning are implemented online without face-to-face meeting between the instructor and the students, or (2) a hybrid in which the instructor meets the students half of the time online and half of the time in the classroom, depending on the needs and requirement of the curriculum. Web-based learning can be integrated into a curriculum that turns into a full-blown course or as a supplement to traditional courses.

There are many Content Types focused on e-learning. Those are totally based on the need analysis and the type of learners. Let us start with the type of contents we are creating while we think of e-learning as an option. Here are the most common Learning Content Types:

1. Learner-centered content :e-learning curriculum should be relevant and specific to learner’s needs, roles and responsibilities in professional life. This kind of content like skills, knowledge and all kind of learning media provided to keep the focus on learner’s end.
2. Engaging content :Instructional methods and techniques should be used creatively to develop an engaging and motivating learning experience. It depends upon developing the storyboard that has to be based on a very engaging way of learning programs.
3. Interactive content :Frequent learner interaction is needed to sustain attention and promote learning. Scenario based learning is a good example for this kind of learning media.
4. Personalization :Self-paced courses should be customizable to reflect learner’s interests and needs; in instructor‑led courses, tutors and facilitators should be able to follow the learners’ progress and performance individually.

Learning pyramid

The influence of mobile technology is felt in education. Traditional lecture-based classroom teaching is now supplemented with technology-enabled learning, and this includes mobile. Children as young as primary age interact readily with digital devices such as tablets. Young people conduct their social lives through their phones, and instinctively turn to them first for news, information-sharing and entertainment. By capitalizing on familiarity with mobile, education can motivate today’s digital natives through new and innovative ways of learning.

Whether you’re a high-school teacher looking to engage your students in a more interactive way, or a corporate trainer hired by a large company to design training curricula, e-learning packs a punch when it comes to benefits that make the creation and delivery processes easier and hassle-free. Important benefits are outlined below.

Although many people still consider traditional universities as the best way to achieve knowledge and get a diploma, online learning and teaching proves to be a great alternative. Students have the chance to study in their own time and especially for free. It represents a great way to study many fields and to boost the level of self-motivation. Web-based learning is so effective because students can finish their homework quickly, and there is more time left for hobbies or for finding a job.

An access to all resources of a traditional course helps participants learn wherever they are, leaving them the freedom to choose the time for study. With basically an Internet connection, a person can attend different courses. Among the advantages of online learning there are the responsibility and self-discipline of students.

But at school, students learn how to make friends, be patient, get rid of disappointment, and especially to compete. Competition between colleagues can be very stimulating and students will only benefit from it. Online learning cannot offer human interaction.

Another disadvantage refers to the fact that online courses cannot cope with thousands of students that try to join discussions. Also, online learning can be difficult, if it is meant for disciplines that involve practice.

Despite of several drawbacks and shortcomings, web-based learning and teaching has been proved to be an essential need of this modern time. So it goes without saying that the future world will prefer the techniques of online education more than the traditional methods.