A System Perspective to Establish a Mobile Collaborative Learning Environment (MCLE) - A Preliminary Study of Empirical Practice

Abstract

In the near future, students will utilize many convenient devices connecting to wireless networks to form a mobile learning environment in the classroom. The research outcomes of Nussbaum seem to imply that mobile learning devices can effectively improve conventional collaborative learning, e.g. providing every student equal opportunities for expressing himself as well as gathering essential information to formulate solid conclusions. Although there are many academic investigations related to mobile learning software and infrastructure development, it is rare to find feasible practices and solutions of platforms and methodologies to foster learning activities. The aim of this study is to deploy mobile CSCL scenario by means of integrated Educlasses, TupleSpaces and group scribbles, a collection of software designed to facilitate students engaging in face-to-face collaborative learning in class activities. The outcomes after the completion of learning activities showed this one-to-one mobile technology enhanced instructional design indeed arouses students' motivations and improves students' mutual interactions.