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Mobile learning is characterized solely by its ability to incorporate transportable devices used in the learning process which in turn offer a number of incentives. Whilst undoubtedly, technology plays a central role in modern society, and its use in teaching or training is unavoidable, even mobile technologies/devices can have their shortcomings.
Mobile devices are continually being invented, meaning learners have to spend large amounts of cash re-purchasing as upgrading may not be a feasible option. Mobile devices, partially to their size are also vulnerable to being misplaced or stolen. Students may have stored hundreds of hours of research and assignment work or teacher possible exam questions, which leads to the issue of security. While devices may have been developed to address security issues, the average student most likely could not afford such features. Mobile devices feature small screens causing students using them for long periods of time eyestrain and the amount of data which can be displayed is minimal (example, mobile phone). “Problems can arise with incompatible devices and standards, and connectivity isn't automatic without integrated systems.�? Bailey further notes, “….social, legal and ethical issues must be considered when using mobile technologies in education�?(http://mist.ist.psu.edu/ff2004/wireless.html). Data rates may slower for wireless internet access compared with desktop access. Disadvantages raised by McLean include limited memory and storage, existing PC applications (such as email and word processing) which contain large chunks of text and maybe used as learning or communication tools between peers or students and teachers do not readily integrate with many mobile devices(Chan, S. 2005).
“Anyone who carries around a mobile gadget knows that battery life stinks. The technology just hasn’t kept pace with the requirements of our gear. We've been hearing about all day notebook computing power (similar to mobile phones and Personal Digital Assistants), but it still isn't here�? (Rupley, 2005). To extend this, a limited battery life means learners have to constantly worry about charging.
“When it comes to laptops, there's a notorious trade-off between performance and mobility.�? If the laptop is advertised as light and easily portable; it’s likely to have limited hard-drive capacity and purchasing power, if it features a strong cinema- quality wide screen its likely to be to heavy to cart around the campus or take to work daily if using public transport. Printing can be an issue(Rotham, 2005). And whilst laptops were designed to service the need of flexibility and mobility, "laptop computers have never been up to the rigors of the great outdoors�? (Suciu, 2005)
Rupley, S. (2005) “Notebook Battery Life is too Short,�? PC Magazine vol. 24, no. 14
Suciu, P. (2005) “Computers You Don’t Coodle,�? Newsweek vol.146, no.9/10
Rothham, W. (2005) “TECH,�? Money vol. 34, no. 9
Chan, S. (2005) “M-Learning-Opportunities for Introducing Cognitive Apprenticeships into Trade-based Apprenticeship Training.�? Paper presented to the 14th National VET Research Conference, Wodonga Institute of TAFE, Christchurch.
Handunge, V. (2004) “Mobile Technologies Gain in Popularity�? retrieved Sept 20, 2005 from: http://mist.ist.psu.edu/ff2004/wireless.html
