e-Learning Blog

In the past, e-learning was mainly done using PCs. However, with the advancement of ICT (Information and Communication Technology) and the increase in online learning, as well as the widespread use of smartphones and other devices, there is a growing demand for learning through smartphones.
Furthermore, e-learning that can only be done on PCs has limitations on learning opportunities for the following reasons:

■Access Restrictions
With the increasing trend of completing various tasks solely on smartphones, there is a certain number of people who do not own a PC. Those who do not have access to a PC environment are unable to access e-learning content.

■Lack of Mobility
PCs can be difficult to carry and operate compared to smartphones, making it difficult to study while out or on the move.

■Digital Literacy Requirements
To conduct e-learning using a PC, a certain level of digital literacy (the ability to use digital technology) is required. For those who are not familiar with digital technology, learning on a PC may be more challenging than on a smartphone.

■Diversity of Learning Styles
Learning styles vary from person to person. For those who want to use their free time efficiently for learning, e-learning with just a PC may not be suitable.

It has been found that e-learning that can only be used on a PC limits learning opportunities. Therefore, by making e-learning compatible with smartphones, which are easily accessible and convenient for learning, it is possible to provide more people with learning opportunities.

According to a survey conducted in 2019 by e-Learning Strategy Research Institute, operated by Digital Knowledge Co., Ltd., 27% of companies responded that "their training can be taken on smartphones." This shows that about one in four companies are actively utilizing smartphones for e-learning.

[Survey Overview]
Survey Purpose: Investigate the current state and latest trends of smartphone usage in corporate training, as well as the challenges.
Survey Period: May 9th (Thursday) - May 14th (Tuesday), 2019
Survey Method: Web survey
Survey Area: Nationwide
Survey Target: 100 human resources and education personnel from companies that have introduced e-learning in corporate training.

Let's organize the benefits of e-learning on smartphones.

〈Benefits.1〉Freedom and Flexibility of Access
E-learning using smartphones allows learners to access learning materials without being restricted by time or location. It enables them to incorporate learning into their daily lives during commuting, waiting times, breaks, etc., which can lead to the habituation of learning.

〈Benefits.2〉Interactive Learning Experience
Smartphones are equipped with functions such as touch screens and sensors, making it possible to approach learning in a more game-like manner compared to PCs that are operated with a mouse or keyboard. Through activities such as quizzes, exercises, and simulations, it is possible to expect the acquisition of knowledge while enjoying learning.

〈Benefits.3〉Diverse Content
Smartphones support various content formats such as video, audio, images, and text. This allows for learning using multiple senses, making it easier to absorb information and promoting a deeper understanding.

〈Benefits 4〉Self-paced Learning
E-learning using smartphones makes it easy to learn at your own pace without being bound by location or time. It is easier to repeat difficult parts and focus on topics of interest.

〈Benefits.5〉High Compatibility with Microlearning
Microlearning, which involves repeating 1 to 5 minute study sessions, is a highly efficient learning method that can produce effective results in a short amount of time. By utilizing smartphones with excellent operability and portability, you can easily engage in learning anytime, anywhere. Additionally, since you can concentrate and learn in a short amount of time, it also meets the learning needs of busy modern individuals.

E-learning utilizing smartphones plays an important role in today's education field, which emphasizes flexibility and diversity. It offers easy access, individualized learning, and an interactive learning environment, providing a wide range of opportunities to acquire knowledge and skills.

To use e-learning comfortably on your smartphone, there are several steps and considerations to keep in mind. Below are the necessary points to keep in mind when implementing.

●Introduction of e-learning system compatible with smartphones
In order to make e-learning compatible with smartphones, it is necessary to have a suitable LMS (Learning Management System) such as "Moodle". When considering an LMS, it is important to choose the optimal service according to the learning needs and functional requirements.

●Optimizing Content
Let's optimize e-learning content for smartphone-friendly formats. Adjusting the content appropriately to accommodate screen size, resolution, and touch screen operations will improve usability.

●Adoption of Responsive Design
Let's adopt a responsive design (a design that optimizes display according to the screen size of the device used by the user) suitable for viewing on smartphones. This will improve the visibility and make it easier to use as the content is displayed properly.

●Facilitate Access
Let's provide simple and user-friendly navigation and login processes so that learners can easily access content through apps and web browsers.

●Providing Appropriate Content
As there are many cases where it is used during free time, content used on smartphones tends to be short and easy to understand. Also, when choosing content, consider the format and design that is suitable for viewing on a small smartphone screen.

●Tracking and Evaluation of Progress
Let's establish a system for tracking and evaluating the progress and grades of learning using smartphones. By using the learning management function of LMS to provide appropriate evaluations such as test results and submission rates of reports, we can improve the motivation and learning outcomes of learners themselves.

●Embedding Interactive Content
By utilizing the features of smartphones, interactive activities such as quizzes, exercises, and simulations can be incorporated into the content, attracting the interest of learners.

●Offline Learning Support
It is important to introduce a system that allows learners to continue learning offline even if they interrupt learning on their smartphone. Let's think about ways to continue learning even in places where learners cannot access the internet.

E-learning utilizing smartphones can provide flexibility and convenience, but in order to achieve this, appropriate planning and tools are necessary. Let's consider the above points and build an effective learning environment.

After this explanation, it is clear that conducting e-learning on smartphones is very beneficial. However, it is important to consider some points when using it. Here are some points to keep in mind for effectively and safely utilizing e-learning on smartphones.

●Security Protection
Smartphones are at risk of being lost or stolen, so it is important to protect login information and personal data for learning apps and websites. In addition, in order to protect the personal information of learners, administrators are required to provide guidelines on privacy policies and data protection and obtain consent.

●Preparation for Information Leakage
If your company's information is included in e-learning materials and they are downloaded for learning, there is a risk of information leakage. Especially when using personal smartphones, there is a possibility that security measures are not sufficient, which further increases the risk. Therefore, one way to mitigate the risk is to have learners log in to a platform on the cloud during their learning.

●Confirm Device Compatibility
Be mindful of the type of device, screen size, and resolution when checking if the learning content is displayed correctly. Especially when taking the course on a smartphone, there is a concern that the size of the materials may become smaller. If the text is difficult to read, it may affect the learning effectiveness by causing readers to skip or miss important information.

● Tips for Maintaining Motivation for Learning
Smartphones are typically used in environments where multiple apps and tasks are running simultaneously. It is possible to become distracted by other apps or notifications while studying, which can decrease concentration and motivation. Therefore, it is important to incorporate methods such as "tracking and evaluating progress" and "interactive content" mentioned in the previous chapter to maintain motivation.

By taking these points into consideration, you can achieve safe and effective education by planning and implementing e-learning on your smartphone.

For busy modern people, e-learning using smartphones provides an efficient learning method. In order to maximize its usefulness, let's keep in mind the points and precautions explained in this article and create the optimal learning environment.

If you are considering introducing an e-learning platform that is compatible with smartphones, we recommend consulting with a vendor who has expertise in this area. You can receive various support, from selecting the appropriate platform to customization and implementation support.

At Human Science, we have a wealth of experience in creating e-learning materials. We utilize our project management expertise to support the planning and design of e-learning. Each project is assigned an experienced project manager and a dedicated team of consultants to provide support until delivery. If you have any concerns about creating learning materials, please feel free to consult with us.

Please see below for each service.
＞ Moodle Implementation Support and Operation
＞ e-Learning Material Creation
＞ e-Learning Material Translation (Multilingual Support, Localization)