==M-Learning – Organisations==
===Introduction===
Mobile devices are practically essential to keep up with the growing job demands of today’s business environment (Von Koschembahr, 2005). There has been a demand for years, for professionals in the workforce, either on the road or away from the office to have access to important information whenever, wherever they may need it. Wireless devices have now enabled this in many organisations, providing on-the-go workers with technology to maintain in-office levels of productivity (Hollis, 2004). These mobile devices are practical for on-the-go communication, and on-demand information sharing, training and learning.
===Information Sharing===
Some organisations have already seen the potential of the M-Learning in the workforce, and are investing in it to extend their mobile infrastructure. These organisations are pushing information such as a tip of the day, news or stock quotes out to their employees (Hollis, 2005). Yet, in order for organisations to deploy M-Learning, it is essential that they have some technology-based learning present within the workplace.
With M-Learning available to workers, it allows them to get into the field more quickly and learn on the job. They are able to acquire necessary information, just-in-time, any time, any place (Von Koschembahr, 2005). Having access to this information when required away from the office enables a more effective and productive workforce.
It also ensures enhanced customer service. Having instant mobile access to product information and current updates, enables a salesperson to effectively inform and assist a customer whether it be in the office or away from the office (Von Koschembahr, 2005).
===Learning and Training===
Training and prepping a new employee can often cost an employer a lot of money. Providing training that is mobile and accessible anywhere, enables a more effective outcome, and is much cheaper.
With M-Learning in the workforce, employees are able to merge learning or training time with work time. Before the introduction of M-Learning in the workplace, employees had to attend classroom training, but were unable to make sales during this time. Now, they are able to use time between customers to do a few minute module or tutorial.
===Further Information===
====See Also====
====References====
Von Koschembahr, C. 2005. Mobile Learning: The Next Evolution of Education. ‘Chief Learning Officer’, February 2005. http://www.clomedia.com/content/templates/clo_article.asp?articleid=849&zoneid=71. (Accessed 7 October 2005).
Von Koschembahr, C. 2005. Optimizing Your Sales Workforce through Mobile Learning. ‘Learning Circuits’. April 2005. http://www.learningcircuits.org/2005/apr2005/vonKoschembahr.htm. (Accessed 7 October 2005).
Hollis, E. 2004. M-Learning: The Next Wave for Training and Development. ‘Chief Learning Officer’. March 2004. http://www.clomedia.com/content/templates/clo_nl_execbriefs_content.asp?articleid=429&zoneid=101. (Accessed 7 October 2005).
====Contributors to This Entry Include====
Nadine chambers 10:13, 4 Oct 2005 (EST)
