The Emergence of Mobile Devices Influencing Learning from the Viewpoint of Convergences

Abstract

This paper describes the emergence of mobile devices influencing learning from the viewpoint of convergences. These convergences take place in three dimensions: (1) technology: the convergence of mobile and Internet broadband technologies; (2) collaboration: the convergence of distance collaborative learning with face- to-face collaborative learning; and (3) curriculum: the convergence of curriculum-oriented formal learning with non-curriculum-oriented informal learning. This paper argues that these convergent developments become possible with the emergence of mobile devices which will most likely help learners make substantial gains in learning. However, the most important criteria for mobile devices to achieve full potential in learning depend on whether the mobile learning activities are set in a rich learning environment that enhances collaboration among learners and experts, as well as learners with their physical and social environment. Apart from that, mobile learning devices can also capture learners' learning experiences, function as scaffolded problem-solving tools and also give opportunities for learners to access extra Internet resources anywhere.