What is mobile learning technology? Why it should be part of your L&D strategy

What is mobile learning technology?

Mobile learning technology, often known as mLearning, leverages smartphones and tablets to enrich organisational learning experiences. By utilising an LMS app, learners can seamlessly access and engage with a wide range of learning content regardless of their location. This portable and interactive approach empowers individuals to enhance their learning journey and unlock knowledge on-the-go.

Mobile learning technology can be presented in many different formats, such as video content, gamification and quizzes, giving users a variety of bitesize content that can be digested easily.

What are the advantages of mobile learning?

There are many ways that utilising a learning management system mobile app can help improve learning and development within your organisation.  Below are some advantages of mobile learning and ways it can enable your L&D strategy.

Learn on the go

It’s no secret that the majority of the population have smartphones and use them on a regular basis. The ease that comes with mobile learning means that the content available can be accessed no matter where the participant is. Removing the need for classroom learning or even sitting in front of a laptop allows for a more fluid and flexible experience.

Improves engagement

By breaking down complex topics into manageable chunks, learners can absorb the content more effectively and build their knowledge gradually. Engagement with a mobile LMS can be a short burst of training which provides instant gratification and a sense of achievement and fosters a positive learning experience.

Increase accessibility

Mobile learning technology increases accessibility by removing barriers, ensuring that individuals have greater access to educational resources and the flexibility to learn according to their own needs and preferences. It enables self-paced learning, accommodates multiple languages and can include assistive technology for those who require it.

Aids personal development

Through mobile learning, individuals can engage in ongoing personal growth and development at their own pace and convenience. It allows individuals to pursue their personal goals, acquire new knowledge and skills, connect with like-minded learners, and receive guidance from subject matter experts.

Cost-effective learning

Although there is an initial upfront cost,  mobile learning technology and online learning content will be cost-effective in the long run compared to in person training, as content will be regularly updated and be instantly pushed out to users. It will also reduce material costs such as textbooks or trainer spends, and remove the need for face-to-face classroom interaction.

The tools you need to use Mobile Learning Technology successfully

To successfully implement mobile learning, it is essential to start with the appropriate technology. A Learning Management System (LMS) is a platform designed to facilitate the creation and delivery of learning content. By utilising an LMS, learners gain the ability to engage in remote learning and access educational resources at their convenience, regardless of their physical location.

Why your chosen LMS needs to include a learning management system mobile app

When you are implementing an LMS, an important point to consider is that the tools within it need to be supportive of on the go learning. This means a mobile learning management system app should be available alongside desktop learning.

With the increasing use of smartphones and tablets, learners expect the flexibility to access educational content anytime, anywhere, for a seamless learning experience. A mobile LMS will facilitate this by giving them ample opportunity to take control of their learning and development with no limitations.

The importance of mobile friendly content within an LMS

Once you have chosen your LMS, with an LMS app the next step is ensuring the content you provide your learners within it is suitable. Although it may seem like it, facilitating mobile learning is not just the process of shrinking desktop LMS content to suit a smaller screen. Instead it requires a different approach to content entirely.  Below are some ways that an LMS provider can ensure a seamless experience is provided within your LMS app:

• Bitesize and microlearning content
• Reduced text for mobile-friendly usage
• Seamless interaction and less need for clicking
• Designed for scrolling and swiping
• Punchy content that clarifies points simply

The inclusion of a mobile app in your Learning Management System is essential to meet the evolving needs of learners in today's mobile-driven landscape. At The Access Group, our Managed Learning solution encompasses an LMS mobile app and mobile friendly eLearning content, meaning our offering supports and encourages learning on the go.