The Mobile Learning Network (MoLeNET)

What is MoLeNET?

The MoLeNET initiative funded and supported 104 projects involving approximately 40,000 learners and over 7,000 staff, in the 3 years 2007/08, 2008/09 and 2009/10

MoLeNET was a unique collaborative approach to introducing and supporting mobile learning in education and training via supported shared cost mobile learning projects. The LSN MoLeNET Support and Evaluation programme provided technical and pedagogic advice and support, materials development, continuing professional development, mentoring, facilitation of peer-to-peer support, networking and resource sharing, research and evaluation.

LSN are continuing to provide services which support institutions, organisations and practitioners to introduce and embed mobile learning into their teaching and learning delivery

What is Mobile Learning?

The MoLeNET programme uses a broad definition of mobile learning i.e:  “The exploitation of ubiquitous handheld technologies, together with wireless and mobile phone networks, to facilitate, support, enhance and extend the reach of teaching and learning.”  Mobile learning can take place in any location, at any time, including traditional learning environments such as classrooms as well as in workplaces, at home, community locations and in transit.  Mobile technologies used can include mobile phones, smartphones, PDAs, MP3/ MP4 players (e.g. iPODs), handheld gaming devices (e.g. Sony PSP, Nintendo DS), Ultramobile PCs (UMPCs), mini notebooks or netbooks, handheld GPS or voting devices and specialist portable technologies used in science labs, engineering workshops or for environmental or agricultural study.  Mobile learning involves connectivity for downloading, uploading and/or on-line working via wireless networks, mobile phone networks or both, and linking to institutional systems e.g. virtual learning environments (VLEs) and management information systems (MIS).