==M-Learning - Developing Countries==
===Brief Background===
The developed world’s emphasis on highly sophisticated technological devices is a futuristic dream for most developing countries (Masters, 2004). Nevertheless, these countries realise that M-Learning is more than just using a mobile device for E-Learning, and that it requires an entirely different approach. In order to utilize M-Learning efficiently in these developing countries, there is a need to understand this approach, as technology becomes available.
These mobile technologies have successfully enabled learning opportunities and support to those learners in developing countries who are situated far distances away from educational facilities, and do not have the infrastructure to support access.
===Infrastructure===
Most developing countries do not have an extensive infrastructure to support M-Learning, and this makes it more complicated to implement it in these countries. However, these developing worlds still maintain similar needs for M-Learning as developed countries do. Ken Masters (2004) proposes that the lack of infrastructure should be no reason for developing countries to delay implementing M-Learning. It is essential, that if the need exists, institutions within these developing countries should establish and commence mobile learning efforts as soon as possible.
Users in developing countries have the same need for M-Learning to be mobile, accessible and affordable, as those in developed countries do. The very significance of M-Learning is its ability to make learning mobile, away from the classroom or workplace. These Wireless and mobile technologies enable learning opportunities to learners who do not have direct access to learning in these places. Many learners in developing countries have trouble accessing the internet, or experience difficulty in affording technology that enables learning in an E-Learning environment. Mobile devices are a cheaper alternative compared to traditional E-Learning equipment such as PC’s and Laptops.
===Ubiquity===
Exotic handheld devices (such as PDA's, iPod’s, 3G Mobile Phones etc) are still likely to be too costly, and not as widespread in developing countries. Ubiquity of mobile technology is an important requirement for M-Learning (Maters, 2004). It is essential that mobile technology is already ubiquitous and existing in developing countries. The most affordable mobile device available to learners in these countries is Mobile Phones. They are the most widespread mobile handheld device owned by people in developing countries and are also the most accessible handheld device. This makes it an operative device to educate learners, considering the costs and accessibility of other handheld devices. A main advantage of Mobile Phones in m-learning in developing countries is its affordability to communicate. The cost of sending bulk SMS to learners is a considerable amount cheaper than sending printed information and it also provides immediate (just-in-time) communication of information.
===Further Information===
====See Also====
E-Learning - Technologies
E-Learning - The Virtual Classroom
Imfundo: Partnership for IT in Education
Commonwealth of Learning: Mobile Learning in Developing Countries
====References====
Masters, K. 2004. Low-key m-learning: a realstic introduction of m-learning to developing countries. http://www.fil.hu/mobil/2005/Masters_final.pdf (Accessed 3 October 2005)
University of Pretoria, Telematic Learning and Education Innovation. 2005. http://www.up.ac.za/telematic/project6.htm. (Accessed 7 October 2005)
====Contributors to This Entry Include====
Nadine chambers 18:10, 10 Oct 2005 (EST)
