This review was carried out at a time of unprecedented public sector cuts and in the toughest economic climate for over 70 years. Whilst institutions will inevitably look towards technology as a cost-saving measure it is important to remember: (i) that any major change management process should prioritise pedagogy, and (ii) that such processes will inevitably involve an upfront cost. Despite this, a move towards the use of student-owned technologies for learning can and will save institutions money in the medium to long-term if planned appropriately.
What follows is a review of mobile and wireless devices to promote new models of learning. The context within which current mobile initiatives operate is outlined first, followed by an overview of previous work in the area. Discussion of the salient issues and recommendations from interviewees and the literature includes both looking back and looking forwards at trends, barriers and opportunities for mobile learning.
The scope, then, as set out in the brief, is upon the past three years, current practice, future trends/opportunities, and international comparisons. Where possible, allusion to cost/benefit considerations have been made.
Indeed, and there are MoleNet case studies showing how to do this. It seems to be a lot smaller a problem in practice than in theory!
Again caution – if planning a move towards use of student-owned technologies to save money. There would need to be safety measures to ensure learners without own technology have equitable access.