What seams do we remove in mobile-assisted seamless learning? A critical review of the literature

Seamless learning refers to the seamless integration of the learning experiences across various dimensions including formal and informal learning contexts, individual and social learning, and physical world and cyberspace. Inspired by the exposition by Chan et al. (2006) on the seamless learning model supported by the setting of one or more mobile device per learner, this paper aims to further investigate the meaning of seamless learning and the potential ways to put it in practice. Through a thorough review of recent academic papers on mobile-assisted seamless learning (MSL), we identify ten dimensions that characterize MSL. We believe that such a framework allows us to identify research gaps in the stated area. A practitioner interested in adopting an MSL design or doing a new design can use our analysis to situate the dimensional space where the constraints or parameters of his or her design problem lie, and look at relevant design and research-based evidence of other related MSL systems to refine her own design.

[1]  A. Strauss,et al.  Basics of qualitative research: Grounded theory procedures and techniques. , 1993 .

[2]  Markus Bick,et al.  Applying Context Metadata in Ambient Knowledge and Learning Environments - A Process-oriented Perspective , 2009, Wissensmanagement.

[3]  David Metcalf,et al.  My Sports Pulse: Increasing Student Interest in STEM Disciplines through Sports Themes, Games and Mobile Technologies , 2008, Fifth IEEE International Conference on Wireless, Mobile, and Ubiquitous Technology in Education (wmute 2008).

[4]  Peta Wyeth,et al.  Learning through treasure hunting: the role of mobile devices , 2008 .

[5]  R. Reeve,et al.  Young Children's Knowledge Building and Literacy Development Through Knowledge Forum® , 2006 .

[6]  Marcelo Milrad,et al.  Physical Activities and Playful Learning Using Mobile Games , 2008, Res. Pract. Technol. Enhanc. Learn..

[7]  Michael Lamport Commons,et al.  Hierarchical Complexity of Tasks Shows the Existence of Developmental Stages , 1998 .

[8]  Jeremy Roschelle,et al.  Keynote paper: Unlocking the learning value of wireless mobile devices , 2003, J. Comput. Assist. Learn..

[9]  Heinz Ulrich Hoppe,et al.  One-to-One Technology-Enhanced Learning: an Opportunity for Global Research Collaboration , 2006, Res. Pract. Technol. Enhanc. Learn..

[10]  Howard Nicholas,et al.  Ubiquitous Learning with Handhelds in Schools. , 2007 .

[11]  Yvonne Rogers,et al.  Why It's Worth the Hassle: The Value of In-Situ Studies When Designing Ubicomp , 2007, UbiComp.

[12]  Marcelo Milrad,et al.  Proceedings : IEEE International Workshop on Wireless and Mobile Technologies in Education : August 29-30, 2002, Växjö, Sweden , 2002 .

[13]  Stephen J. H. Yang,et al.  Context Aware Ubiquitous Learning Environments for Peer-to-Peer Collaborative Learning , 2006, J. Educ. Technol. Soc..

[14]  Toshio Okamoto,et al.  Adaptive multimedia content delivery for context-aware u-learning , 2011, Int. J. Mob. Learn. Organisation.

[15]  Jianhua Wang,et al.  Research on Mobile Learning Platform with Device Adapting Ability Based on Agent , 2008, 2008 International Conference on Computer Science and Software Engineering.

[16]  Lung-Hsiang Wong,et al.  Analysis of Small Group Interactions in a Seamless Language Learning Environment: An Artifact-Oriented Approach , 2011, CSCL.

[17]  Brendan Tangney,et al.  Designing collaborative, constructionist and contextual applications for handheld devices , 2006, Comput. Educ..

[18]  Chee-Kit Looi,et al.  Extending students' learning spaces: technology-supported seamless learning , 2010, ICLS.

[19]  Xiang Li,et al.  Learning in an Ambient Intelligent World: Enabling Technologies and Practices , 2009, IEEE Transactions on Knowledge and Data Engineering.

[20]  Gwo-Jen Hwang,et al.  Criteria, Strategies and Research Issues of Context-Aware Ubiquitous Learning , 2008, J. Educ. Technol. Soc..

[21]  Marcelo Milrad,et al.  Mobile learning: small devices, big issues , 2009 .

[22]  Hiroaki Ogata,et al.  JAMIOLAS 3.0: Supporting Japanese Mimicry and Onomatopoeia Learning Using Sensor Data , 2010, Int. J. Mob. Blended Learn..

[23]  Diane Larsen-Freeman,et al.  MAKING SENSE OF FREQUENCY , 2002, Studies in Second Language Acquisition.

[24]  Marcelo Milrad,et al.  Bridging outdoors and indoors educational activities in schools with the support of mobile and positioning technologies , 2008, Int. J. Mob. Learn. Organisation.

[25]  Marcelo Milrad,et al.  Innovation in Mobile Learning: A European Perspective , 2009, Int. J. Mob. Blended Learn..

[26]  Kaj Grønbæk,et al.  eBag: a ubiquitous Web infrastructure for nomadic learning , 2005, WWW '05.

[27]  Lung-Hsiang Wong,et al.  Vocabulary learning by mobile-assisted authentic content creation and social meaning-making: two case studies , 2010, J. Comput. Assist. Learn..

[28]  Chee-Kit Looi,et al.  Location matters: leveraging knowledge building with mobile devices and Web 2.0 technology , 2009, Interact. Learn. Environ..

[29]  Roger C. Schank,et al.  Dynamic Memory Revisited , 1999 .

[30]  Kinshuk,et al.  Component Exchange Community: A Model of Utilizing Research Components to Foster International Collaboration , 2006, J. Educ. Technol. Soc..

[31]  Yanjie Song,et al.  Educational Uses of Handheld Devices: What are the Consequences? , 2007 .

[32]  Mike Sharples,et al.  Meeting the Challenges in Evaluating Mobile Learning: A 3-Level Evaluation Framework , 2009, Int. J. Mob. Blended Learn..

[33]  Mariko Suzuki,et al.  Development and evaluation of web-based mobile contents for logical thinking by teaching students 'how to think' , 2010, Int. J. Mob. Learn. Organisation.

[34]  Hyo-Jeong So,et al.  Seamless Mobile Learning: Possibilities and Challenges Arising from the Singapore Experience , 2008 .

[35]  Sung-Bin Chang,et al.  Designing One-toOne Activities with a Cognitive Conflict Resolution Strategy , 2007 .

[36]  Yvonne Rogers,et al.  Challenges in designing seamless-learning scenarios: affective and emotional effects on external representations , 2011, Int. J. Mob. Learn. Organisation.

[37]  Yang Xianmin.  Learning Resource Designing and Sharing in Ubiquitous Learning Environment——The Concept and Architecture of Leaning Cell , 2009 .

[38]  Tak-Wai Chan,et al.  Profile Enhanced Classroom Learning , 2006 .

[39]  Roy D. Pea,et al.  WILD for learning: Interacting through new computing devices anytime, anywhere , 2006 .

[40]  Jie-Chi Yang,et al.  Affordances of mobile technologies for experiential learning: the interplay of technology and pedagogical practices , 2007, J. Comput. Assist. Learn..

[41]  Baohui Zhang,et al.  Designing a seamless learning environment to learn reduce, reuse and recycle in environmental education , 2009, Int. J. Mob. Learn. Organisation.

[42]  Michelle M. Kazmer.  Cats in the classroom: Online learning in hybrid space , 2005, First Monday.

[43]  LooiChee-Kit,et al.  What seams do we remove in mobile-assisted seamless learning? A critical review of the literature , 2011 .

[44]  Elliot Soloway,et al.  Anatomy of a mobilized lesson: Learning my way , 2009, Comput. Educ..

[45]  Yvonne Rogers,et al.  How Mobile Technologies Are Changing the Way Children Learn , 2009 .

[46]  Baohui Zhang,et al.  Leveraging mobile technology for sustainable seamless learning: a research agenda , 2010, Br. J. Educ. Technol..

[47]  Mike Sharples,et al.  A theory of learning for the mobile age: learning through conversation and exploration across contexts , 2010 .

[48]  David E. Millard,et al.  A Four Dimensional Model of Formal and Informal Learning , 2008 .

[49]  Tan-Hsu Tan,et al.  RFID-based Ubiquitous Learning Environment for Outdoor Learning , 2007, Seventh IEEE International Conference on Advanced Learning Technologies (ICALT 2007).

[50]  S. Garlatti,et al.  Pervasive Technology-Enhanced Learning System Integrating Working and Learning Situations , 2008, 2008 3rd International Conference on Information and Communication Technologies: From Theory to Applications.

[51]  Edward Chapel.  Mobile technology: the foundation for an engaged and secure campus community , 2008, J. Comput. High. Educ..

[52]  Ezz Hattab,et al.  A Proposed Model for Individualized Learning through Mobile Technologies , 2009 .

[53]  B. Bloom,et al.  Taxonomy of Educational Objectives. Handbook I: Cognitive Domain , 1966 .

[54]  Hsiu-Yi Lin,et al.  Scaffolding m-learning approach of automotive practice courses in senior vocational high school , 2008, 2008 38th Annual Frontiers in Education Conference.

[55]  Joshua Underwood,et al.  Exploring the Potential of the Homework System and Tablet PCs to Support Continuity of Numeracy Practices between Home and Primary School , 2007 .

[56]  Y. Bentley,et al.  Evaluating the Impact of Distance Learning Support Systems on the Learning Experience of MBA Students in a Global Context. , 2010 .

[57]  M. Scardamalia,et al.  Socio-cognitive dynamics of knowledge building in the work of 9- and 10-year-olds , 2007 .

[58]  Kuo-Kuang Chu,et al.  A Study of the Effect of Pupils' Learning Achievement on Project-based Learning with Context Awareness Technology , 2009, KES IIMSS.

[59]  Roy D. Pea,et al.  LET's GO! to the Creek: Co-design of Water Quality Inquiry Using Mobile Science Collaboratories , 2010, 2010 6th IEEE International Conference on Wireless, Mobile, and Ubiquitous Technologies in Education.

[60]  Shian-Shyong Tseng,et al.  A Knowledge-based Approach to Retrieving Teaching Materials for Context-aware Learning , 2009, J. Educ. Technol. Soc..

[61]  Darlene E. Crone-Todd,et al.  Assessment of Thinking Levels in Students' Answers , 2001 .

[62]  G. Kuh.  Guiding principles for creating seamless learning environments for undergraduates , 1996 .

[63]  Po-Sheng Chiua,et al.  The Ubiquitous Learning Evaluation Method Based on Meaningful Learning , 2008 .

[64]  Kevin Smith,et al.  The CLASS Course Design Model for Web-Based Instruction. , 1998 .

[65]  Giasemi N. Vavoula,et al.  Literature Review in Mobile Technologies and Learning , 2004 .

[66]  Emily Skop,et al.  Creating Field Trip-Based Learning Communities , 2009 .

[67]  K. Weick.  FROM SENSEMAKING IN ORGANIZATIONS , 2021, The New Economic Sociology.

[68]  Yvonne Rogers,et al.  Enhancing learning: a study of how mobile devices can facilitate sensemaking , 2010, Personal and Ubiquitous Computing.

[69]  C. Schroeder.  The Student Learning Imperative: Implications for Student Affairs. , 1996 .

[70]  Ching-Jung Liao,et al.  The Construction of an Ontology-Based Ubiquitous Learning Grid , 2009, Int. J. Distance Educ. Technol..

[71]  Nian-Shing Chen,et al.  Designing a Self-contained Group Area Network for Ubiquitous Learning , 2008, J. Educ. Technol. Soc..

[72]  Yvonne Rogers,et al.  The Role of Mobile Devices in Facilitating Collaborative Inquiry in situ , 2008, Res. Pract. Technol. Enhanc. Learn..

[73]  Vincent Tinto,et al.  Learning Communities: Building Gateways to Student Success 1 , 1999 .

[74]  Hiroaki Ogata,et al.  Context-aware support for self-directed ubiquitous-learning , 2010, Int. J. Mob. Learn. Organisation.

[75]  Takanori Maesako,et al.  A Framework of Learner Development Ecosystem for Designing a Ubiquitous Educational Informational Infrastructure , 2009, J. Softw..

[76]  Chen-Chung Liu,et al.  Beyond the Ownership of Handheld Devices: Active Learning with Ubiquitous Learning Minds , 2008, Fifth IEEE International Conference on Wireless, Mobile, and Ubiquitous Technology in Education (wmute 2008).

[77]  Nathan K. Lindsay,et al.  The Effects of Liberal Arts Experiences on Liberal Arts Outcomes , 2008 .

[78]  Kinshuk,et al.  An investigation of attitudes of students and teachers about participating in a context-aware ubiquitous learning activity , 2011 .

[79]  Yuen-Yan Chan,et al.  Mobile learning: a new paradigm in electronic learning , 2003, Proceedings 3rd IEEE International Conference on Advanced Technologies.

[80]  Hiroaki Ogata,et al.  LOCH: supporting mobile language learning outside classrooms , 2008, Int. J. Mob. Learn. Organisation.

[81]  Elliot Soloway,et al.  Deconstructing and reconstructing: Transforming primary science learning via a mobilized curriculum , 2010, Comput. Educ..

[82]  Douglas R. Vogel,et al.  Do Mobile Device Applications Affect Learning? , 2007, 2007 40th Annual Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences (HICSS'07).

[83]  Yi-Ting Huang,et al.  A Mobile Video Question Answering System for E-learning , 2007, Seventh IEEE International Conference on Advanced Learning Technologies (ICALT 2007).

[84]  Lung-Hsiang Wong,et al.  Students' Personal and Social Meaning Making in a Chinese Idiom Mobile Learning Environment , 2010, J. Educ. Technol. Soc..

[85]  Darlene E. Crone-Todd,et al.  Operational Definitions for Higher-Order Thinking Objectives at the Post-secondary Level , 2000 .

[86]  Mls Steven J. Bell EdD.  Creating Learning Libraries in Support of Seamless Learning Cultures , 2000 .

[87]  Jaime Sánchez,et al.  Science problem solving learning through mobile gaming , 2008, MindTrek '08.