Annotated+Bibliographies

__Research topic__: What is m-learning? m-learning is mobile learning. Mobile learning is convenient, flexible, portable, cost effective, and can occur in any location at any time. However, can mobile learning be successfully integrated into course design to be considered beneficial in higher education? McGarr, O. (2009). A review of podcasting in higher education: Its influence on the traditional lecture. //Australasian Journal of Educational Technology//, //25//(3), 309-321. Retrieved from ERIC database. This article examines the use of mobile technology and its possible impact on the traditional classroom lecture. Podcasting can be seen as having three specific uses: 1) substitutional – recorded session for a student who was unable to attend class, 2) supplementary – providing complimentary lesson plans, information, or data as suggested materials to read for student clarification, or 3) creative – student produced for assignments or collaboration. The authors examined the traditional lecture and introduced the recent interest in podcasting and its use in education. The sole author of this article is, Dr. Oliver McGarr, professor in the Department of Education and Professional Studies Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Ireland. The article is in a scholarly journal, and the author has referenced several scholarly articles. The author was non-judgmental in his presentation for the use of mobile learning in higher education, and his information would be valuable in my research regarding this technology. Motlik, S. (2008). 63. Mobile learning in developing nations. //International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 9//(2), 1-7. Retrieved from ERIC database. This article examines the use of mobile technology in developing countries – specifically Asia and Africa – in contrast to North America. The authors believe that Asia and Africa would benefit more from mobile learning than Web-based learning. Mobile learning satisfies the distance education student’s need for anytime/anywhere connection. Although Asia is the leading mobile phone consumer in the world, mobile phone penetration is not as high in Africa. However, Africa, and especially Asia, have increased the use of mobile phones in education over the years. The author believes that Asia will be the driving force behind the use of mobile phones in education, while North American continues to pursue Internet-based distance education. The sole author of this article is Professor Scott Motlik, MDE Programme, Athabasca University, Canada’s Open University. The article is in a scholarly journal, and the author has listed several scholarly articles, in addition to articles from the Web. The author does not seem biased in his article, and uses several citations from others in the field to support his statements. This information has been helpful and would be appropriate for my use in a research paper. Peters, K. (2007). m-learning: Positioning educators for a mobile, connected future. //International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning,// 8(2), 1-17. Retrieved from ERIC database. This article attempts to distinguish mobile learning from a mere trend to having a possible use in delivering education. Communication technology is rapidly changing, allowing users to view audio, video, and documents without being in a fixed location such as a home or office. Mobile technology offers flexibility, convenience, and is a less expensive alternative to the Internet. In essence, m-learning can be seen as an improvement of e-learning. The author’s research stated that students are ready for mobile learning and instructor readiness may be an obstacle; however, education and training providers believe it to be beneficial. The sole author of this article is Kristine Peters, Flinders University, Australia, who has written numerous publications in the field on mobile learning, e-learning, and youth development. The article is in a scholarly journal, and the author has listed many scholarly references. The author does not express bias in her article, and I found this to be an excellent source for a research paper. Traxler, J. (2007). Defining, discussing, and evaluating mobile learning: The moving finger writes and having writ... . //International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 8//(2), 1-12. Retrieved from ERIC database. This article explores various publications, projects, pilots, and trials on mobile learning in an effort to define the possibility of using mobile technology in education – in both developed and developing countries. The increase of conferences and workshops dedicated to mobile learning emphasize the possible benefits to students, instructors, and education. The author discussed the proposed benefits and possible challenges of mobile learning, in particular, the strategic factors within the educational system. The sole author of this article is John Traxler, Professor of Mobile Learning, Director, Learning Lab, University of Wolverhampton, UK, who has written numerous publications in on learning with mobile devices, mobile learning in developing countries, and the legal and ethical challenges of mobile learning. The article is in a scholarly journal, and the author has listed many scholarly references. The author does not express bias in his article, and states that research in this field is still undeveloped. This article is well documented and researched, and I found this to be an excellent source for a research paper.