Mobile Learning Object Compatibility Challenges in Educational Technology
This study explores compatibility challenges for mobile learning objects in educational technology. It evaluates the usability and functionality of different file types on iPhone/iPod Touch using Moodle as a VLE. Various file formats including word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, web pages, images, animations, videos, and sound are analyzed for readability and interactivity. The research highlights limitations and recommends web-based interactive learning apps for future growth in mobile learning.
Mobile Learning Object Compatibility Challenges in Educational Technology
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Presentation Transcript
Presenter: Markus Hofmann Co-Author: Matt Smith Institute of Technology Blanchardstown Compatibility Challenges for Mobile Learning Objects EdTech 2009
Introduction • Motivation • iPhone/iPod Touch • Moodle as VLE • Learning Objects should be platform independent
Background • Design for mobility • Design for widespread population • Design for limited input/output facilities • Ideal for learning outside formal environment
Methodology • 36 files evaluated • 9 different application type categories • Evaluated interactivity, functionality, readability, usability and various iPhone features. • Moodle as delivery method (iPhone browser) • 3G iPhone (version 2.2.1)
Word Processing • Supported Files: • .doc, .docx, .pdf • Unsupported Files • .odt, .pages, .txt • Very readable through automated customisation (even with font size 10) • Active external links • Zooming & rotation • No index in pdf files • Cannot be edited
Spreadsheets • Supported Files: • .xls, .xlsx • Unsupported Files • .ods, .numbers • Limited formulae support • No Macro support • Rotate and zoom features • Cannot be edited
Presentation • Supported Files: • .ppt, .pptx • Unsupported Files • .odp, .keynote • Loss of transitions • Loss of animations • One continuous page • Rotate and zoom features
Web Pages • Supports XHTML • JavaScript • Interactive • No Flash support • Possible platform for mobile social learning • Editable (limited) • Fully input/output compatible
Still Images • Fully supports • jpg, gif, tiff, bmp, png • Zoom and rotation • Can be saved to local device
Animations • Supported Files: • .gif (animated) • Unsupported Files • .swf • Flash Files can be converted • No interactivity
Moving Images • Supported Files: • .mp4, • Unsupported Files • .mov, .mpg, .wmv, .avi and flv. • Zoom and rotate feature supported • YouTube.com support
Sound • Supported Files: • .wav • Unsupported Files • mp3, mid, m4a, wma and flac • Podcasts through iTunes
Other • MS Publisher and Visio files are not supported.
Challenges • Limitations due to physical size • Differences in expectations • Incompatibility with ‘legacy’ learning objects • No plug-in support by browser
Summary • Only 2nd Generation • OS 3.0 • Main issue lies with plug-in limitations • Web pages are best supported and most suited to develop learning objects
Conclusion • Supported files work great • Conversion to supported file types is often possible • Push towards web based interactive learning apps • Future growth of new generation mobile device.