Learner research and systems trials | Project team login | Deliverables

Learner research and system trials - summary

Objectives

The objectives of the learner research and system trials are:

To test prototype learning materials and systems
To explore the ways in which young adults in the project’s target audience use and respond to the m-learning environment, materials and user interfaces - both individually and in groups
To explore appropriate pedagogies and ways in which m-learners can be supported
To explore ways in which the m-learning environment and materials can be used by organisations working with young adults to engage them in learning activities and whether this engagement leads to an increased interest in learning generally
To evaluate if learning gains have been made by using m-learning materials
To evaluate how m-learning products are used by learners and how their use affects skills, habits and attitudes to learning.

Approach

Learner research and system trials are taking place in the UK, Italy and Sweden and involve around 200 learners. Trials in Sweden are smaller scale than those in the UK and Italy. Organisations working with young people in the m-learning target audience are collaborating in one or more small-scale local research projects each involving at least 10 young adults using m-learning prototype materials and systems.

Each project involves tutors/mentors or other support workers from the collaborating organisation carrying out activities including:

Identifying and recruiting a group of young people who meet the target audience description
Attending a one-day induction workshop (travel and subsistence will be reimbursed)
Introducing the young people to the mobile devices and learning materials
Involving the young people in learning experiences using the mobile devices and learning materials (e.g. visiting an area with camera phones and collecting information and answering questions via multi media messaging)
Collecting feedback from the young people through the use of research tools such as questionnaires and interviews. All the necessary tools, equipment and training will be provided
Assisting with analysis of research data collected
Providing feedback on their experiences with, and views on, the mobile devices, the learning materials and the learner feedback tools
Taking part in a conference to disseminate information about the research to and interested audience.