Abstract:

While there are different types of software tools and platforms for e-learning nowadays, they have their respective purposes and limitations. For example, InstantPresenter can only provide webinar service function; Dyknow Suite is used to facilitate in-class exercises, and Virtual Computing Lab is designed to remotely access special computers and applications available only in physical laboratories. In this paper, the author proposes to integrate three different types of e-learning tools on top of mobile technologies and re-create their functions to form a novel mobile learning system. This function-complete mobile learning system has the same characteristics of face-to-face instructions while it can be utilized anywhere and anytime. The first component adopts a webinar tool as the Lecture Module. The second component adopts a classroom management tool as the Interactive Instruction and Cyber Office Hour Module. The last one adopts a virtual experiment tool as the Virtual Lab Module. The integration of the three different e-learning tools allows students to have a better learning experience that will equal or outperform traditional in-class instructions. As all three modules are accessible through the Internet, the users can access the system from anywhere through mobile devices and wireless networks. The lectures can be delivered the system in real-time or through recorded stream. Hence, the learners can learn at anytime with their own paces. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) courses are rarely offered in distance learning because the current distance learning technology cannot provide real-time interactions between the instructors and the learners and mechanisms to perform laboratories in distance. The Virtual Lab Module enables the learners to access special computers and/or software applications in distance. The Interactive Instruction and Cyber Office Hour Module of this system allows the instructor and the student to individual-based real-time interactions. These features are effective to tackle the barriers to offer STEM courses online. This novel system is an ideal platform for effective mobile learning.

Keywords:

Distance learning, mobile learning, distance learning platform.