UNESCO policy guidelines m-learning
David Leeming
Dear all,
Please find attached an interesting and quite easy-to-read UNESCO guideline on mobile learning; how mobiles can play a role in improving access and quality in education. Plenty of nice examples.
It’s worth noting the potential of leveraging devices owned by the students themselves, as we struggle with the challenge of providing access and exposure to the Internet, when computers and resources are limited.
I believe that this can be a future here too. There may be barriers such as SMS and data costs, but I believe that those can be overcome. Telekom and bemobile (now with the linkage to Vodafone) would be responsive to demand. A results-based approach is needed, with technology use leading to clear educational outcomes.
The policy recommendations are at the end of the document. For example:
· examine the unique educational potentials and challenges offered by mobile technology and, when appropriate, incorporate these understandings into broader ICT in education policies.
· Avoid blanket prohibitions of mobile devices. Universal bans, unless implemented for well-considered reasons, are blunt instruments that usually obstruct educational opportunities and inhibit innovation in teaching and learning.
· Provide guidance on how new investments in technology can work in conjunction with existing educational investments and initiatives.
This is interesting; I note that at Allardyce they have already been thinking forwardly, and are planning to allow students to access the Internet with their own devices on Sundays (those that have mobiles equipped with Wi-Fi). Balanced with appropriate controls to prevent disruption.
Continue reading the summarised policy guidelines at the end of the attached document.
David Leeming
Solomon Islands Rural Link
P.O.Box 652 Honiara, Solomon Islands
+677 7476396 (m) +677 24419 (h)