Abstract:

What are the best practices for utilizing mobile learning technologies in the classroom? This has been a question asked in education since the introduction of this current phase of mobile learning. Programs inherently understand that mobile learning could be used as an effective learning/ teaching tool that students could access ubiquitously. Current research emphasizes the flexible and convenient nature of mobile learning outside of the traditional four-walled classrooms. However, the problem remains as to how best to implement mobile learning without the feeling that Apps are being tried just for the sake of using them and that the learning environment is being used as a perpetual laboratory for testing the latest applications.

This session will provide an overview of how iPad Apps have been adopted by a public university in the United Arab Emirates. It will also provide insight into what characteristics were deemed suitable in a Foundation level English program. Presenters will also highlight the process used for choosing these Apps based on current research and teacher input. Participants will leave the session equipped with new ideas and a list of criteria on how to select the best Apps to fit student and teacher needs.

Keywords:

Mobile learning, ESL, EFL, SLL, instructional technology.