Is Learning as Effective When Studying Using a Mobile Device Compared to Other Methods?
A concern with E-Learning environments is whether students achieve superior or equivalent learning outcomes to those obtained through traditional methods. In this chapter the authors present the results of a research study comparing students’ learning outcomes with four different delivery methods - printed study material, lecture format, computers and “smart” mobile phones. The results of our study show that learning outcomes are similar when students study by using a computer, mobile phone, or lecture format, while studying with print material yields slightly superior test results. These findings are discussed in the context of the type of learning used in the study and the factors that impact on the effectiveness of using mobile phones for learning purposes, such as learning styles and attitudes to computers. The authors conclude the chapter by briefly discussing developments in mobile technologies and the opportunities they present for mobile learning.