Smartphones have become the leading device for communication, entertainment, and above all, for obtaining information. Thanks to Google and the different search engines available, getting access to new knowledge is as easy as typing a question or using the voice assistant, and in a few seconds, we have the answer or solution. Mobile Learning is born from this new content and information consumption trend.
Do you want to know what Mobile Learning is and how to use it to train the modern workforce? In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this strategy and how to use it in your business.
What is mobile learning?
Mobile learning, also known as m-learning, refers to the learning process using mobile devices, such as smartphones, notebooks, or tablets.
This learning model allows access to content when we need it. It lets the user learn from wherever he is and when it suits him best because its main focus is mobility.
Mobile learning also encompasses learning in many other contexts because it enables social interactions and connection besides allowing access to content anywhere. M-learning offers the opportunity to train successfully despite technological changes and new hybrid workspaces, which is why organizations have placed particular interest in this type of teaching.
Key features of m-learning
For m-learning to be genuinely effective in corporate training programs, it must have specific fundamental characteristics:
Content microlearning format
Mobile learning combines technology with content in a microlearning format. Microlearning is a learning methodology that delivers training in micro-content or small bursts of relevant information, designed to be consumed quickly, maintaining attention and improving learner retention. Do you want to know more about microlearning? Read this article.
When combining a mobile learning strategy with microlearning content, you can recreate the classic content consumed daily on social networks, which is the favorite for the modern workforce: interactive videos, animations, games, and exercises, among others.
Social Learning
Mobile learning often uses social learning to drive engagement by emulating the behavior of social media users. Some of the most used social learning elements for m-learning are forums, news feeds, or chats to connect with colleagues or experts and share ideas.
The advantages and disadvantages of mobile learning
Mobile learning is a rapidly growing area because it can simplify many of the actions within our training plan. Is it the right format for your organization? Look at this list of advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages
- Millennials love mobiles
According to Think whit Google, the proliferation of mobile devices has changed the way people interact with the world. 80% of the world’s population uses smartphones; millennials are the main ones.
Now, millennials comprise 52% of the remote workforce, compared to 29% of Gen X and 17% of Baby Boomers. The easiest and most comfortable way to reach them is through their mobile devices.
- It’s more accessible
If we focus on those workers who are constantly on the move, we must offer them training available 24 hours a day and right in their hands. Mobile devices are the best option!
Providing a mobile learning strategy within an app would make it even more accessible for dispersed workers, ensuring they always have access and eliminating tricky login details.
- It’s more efficient
Different studies have shown that M-learning users finish courses 45% faster and learn much more than sitting at a desk.
But more importantly, learning effectiveness is not compromised or degraded when employees train through their devices. Instead, like mobile micro-content is easy to consume and distribute, training can be completed rapidly and integrated into the existing workflow, empowering workers rather than interrupting them.
- It’s more profitable
The costs involved in hiring an instructor, renting a space, printing materials, and financing travel expenses (airfare, lodging, and food for staff) are very high for businesses.
The investment in face-to-face training is high, without considering the loss of productivity caused by the time invested in a classroom. And mobile learning eliminates all these expenses, allowing companies to enjoy a higher return on investment and obtain better completion rates.
- Is more attractive
Let’s compare long lectures on paper and endless seminars with a small burst of information presented with elements like videos, quizzes, or games. What sounds more attractive?
Condensing large amounts of information into small bites makes training faster and more appealing to employees, who can complete a lesson or module in just 5 minutes just by picking up their mobiles.
- Improve employee retention
Not only have more than half of leaders seen improvement after implementing mobile learning, but LinkedIn research showed that 94% of employees would stay longer with a company if it invested more in their professional development.
- Encourages continued learning
Finally, while traditional face-to-face training makes it difficult for an employee to review or repeat a module to refresh their memory, m-learning is always available at any time and place.
The accessibility of m-learning allows employees to look for knowledge whenever they want and encourages continuity of learning. The more accessible and enjoyable the training is, the more likely they will keep learning.
The disadvantages
- It can be a distraction
Distractions happen if employees are interrupted by text messages or notifications during learning, but this is the risk of always having your phone with you. The important thing is to choose a platform or software that presents the mobile training as attractive and interactive so that the employee can keep the attention.
- Experience
It’s vital to ensure that the selected content is under the company’s needs, both in information and format. If the training team needs to gain experience in creating this type of course, it is better to opt for a learning consultancy to get the most out of using mobile learning software.
- Technological barriers
Lack of mobile technology or internet connection can be a problem for this type of learning. The best thing is to ensure that the team has it, investing in mobile technology suitable for their needs and progress. This will be a long-term investment.
#5 Key for a successful corporate mobile learning strategy
Now that you know what mobile learning is and know its advantages and disadvantages, we want to teach you how to create a successful m-learning strategy with these 5 tips:
#1 Makes it easy to start
The first impression counts, and employees will decide whether or not the platform is worth it in just a couple of minutes. By incorporating a mobile learning strategy, change must be accessible and allow learners to adapt and continue learning without any problem. Providing direct access to the content is better without forcing them to log in and in a friendly app.
#2 Design ‘Mobile’ content for smartphones
Yes, because it is about more than just watching lessons on a Smartphone instead of on a computer. The entire experience must be attractive and interactive. Use everyday actions like swiping or tapping on the screen to create a friendly and intuitive interface.
#3 Use Videos
Why? The current confidence in YouTube and Tiktok tutorials or videos, compared to textbooks, can be used for training. In addition, the information presented in video format is more likely to be retained because our brain understands it more easily.
#4 Divide the content into short modules and experiment with gamification
You know about microlearning and why micro training works better, but gamification is also essential. Integrating game activities for points, rankings, or the opportunity to level up offers a more pleasant experience to users and generates more engagement.
#5 Incorporate social learning spaces
Spaces to keep professionals connected and communicating at all times to facilitate feedback, like chats, feeds, forums, etc.
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