Tim de Jong

A Reference Model for Mobile Social Software for Learning

This paper provides a reference model for mobile social software and uses it to analyse the current state-of-the-art in its applications for learning. A general overview of the literature in the field and the available projects will be given. The reference model for mobile social software helps us to (1) find out to what extent mobile social software for learning has already been used until date, (2) identify gaps and limitations in current research and provide new ideas and innovative approaches for learning based on these gaps, and (3) position our current research work in preparation of a study of applications of mobile social software for learning. After describing the current state-of-the-art, its limitations and suggestions for future research, an implemented solution of mobile social software for learning is briefly described. The paper concludes with an outlook on possible chances and challenges for future research.

Mobile Social Software to Support Authenticity

Recently, mobile devices have become more and more popular. Their portability and increasing possibilities to create and view high quality multimedia content make them unique tools to support learning in context. In addition, most of these devices provide ways of communication between the learner and his peers. Already a couple of years ago, Rheingold recognised the power of loosely coupled, ad hoc communities “Smartmobs”, which were based on mobile or ubiquitous access to personal social networks (Rheingold 2002). Like Rheingold, we also believe that easy access to learning content and social peers facilitates the creation of an active learning network. Open image in new window