Mobile Learning (m-Learning) Implementation: 5 best ways to Train Your Employees on the Go

According to a report by ResearchAndMarkets, the global mobile learning market is expected to reach $37.6 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 18.2% from 2020 to 2025. The report attributes this growth to the increasing use of mobile devices, the rising demand for personalized learning, and the need for cost-effective training solutions.

What is mobile learning? 

Mobile learning, or M-Learning, is an innovative approach to training that has taken the world by storm. It harnesses the power of mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to deliver learning content to employees whenever and wherever they choose. With the rise of GenZ in the workforce and the widespread use of technology, mobile learning has emerged as a popular and convenient way to train employees.

M- Learning provides a flexible and engaging way to learn that caters to the fast-paced and ever-changing demands of today’s business world. It offers a range of learning experiences, from interactive courses and videos to gamified learning activities and quizzes. By using mobile devices, employees can access training on the go, making it a convenient option for busy professionals with hectic schedules.

Why mobile learning? 

• • Flexibility: M-Learning provides employees with the flexibility to access training anytime, anywhere, making it more convenient and accessible for busy learners.

• • Scalability: M-Learning can help reach remote workers and deskless workers who may not have access to traditional training sessions, improving the reach of training programs.

• • Relevance: With mobile technology becoming increasingly prevalent among millennials and Gen Z, mobile learning can meet employees where they are, offering a comfortable and appealing learning option.

• • Engagement: Incorporating multimedia elements in mobile learning programs, such as videos and interactive content, can increase engagement and retention among learners.

• • Analytics: The use of analytics and reporting tools can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of mobile learning programs, allowing for ongoing improvements and optimizations.

• • Compatibility: Ensuring compatibility with various mobile devices and optimizing content for low-bandwidth connections are critical factors to consider when implementing mobile learning.

How to implement Mobile learning? 

Mobile Device Compatibility

The first thing to consider when implementing a M-Learning program is mobile device compatibility. With a variety of mobile devices and operating systems in use, it is important to ensure that the training content is accessible on a range of devices, including smartphones and tablets. 

Additionally, the mobile learning platform should be designed to work seamlessly with various operating systems, such as iOS and Android, and provide a consistent user experience across different devices.

According to a report by Statista, as of 2021, there are 3.8 billion smartphone users worldwide, with an expected increase to 4.3 billion users by 2023.

This highlights the importance of ensuring that M-Learning content is accessible on a range of devices. 

Network Connectivity

 M-Learning requires an internet connection or mobile data plan, so it is important to ensure that employees have access to a reliable network. The Mobile Learning platform should also be designed to work well on slow or unstable networks, ensuring that employees can access the training content even in areas with limited connectivity.

The availability of reliable network connectivity is critical for mobile learning. A study by eLearning Industry found that 57% of learners use their mobile devices to access training content during work hours, which means that they rely on a reliable network connection to access the content.

 Moreover, a report by Cisco suggests that by 2023, mobile data traffic will account for 12.3 exabytes per month, highlighting the importance of designing the Mobile Learning platform to work well on slow or unstable networks.

User Interface Design

The user interface (UI) design of the Mobile Learning platform is another important technical aspect to consider. The platform should be easy to use, with a simple and intuitive UI that allows employees to navigate through the training content effortlessly. 

The UI design should also be optimized for mobile devices, with a responsive layout that adapts to different screen sizes and resolutions.

According to a report by eLearning Industry, 94% of learners prefer Mobile Learning because it allows them to learn at their own pace and convenience. However, a complicated or poorly designed user interface can hinder the learning experience. 

Therefore, the platform should be designed with a simple and intuitive UI that allows employees to navigate through the training content effortlessly, as well as being optimized for mobile devices.

Multimedia Content

Mobile Learning platforms can deliver training content in various multimedia formats, such as videos, animations, interactive quizzes, and simulations. However, the technical aspect to consider is the compatibility of these formats across different mobile devices and operating systems. 

The content should be designed to work on a range of devices and optimized for mobile viewing, with the appropriate file formats and compression to minimize bandwidth usage and load times.

According to a report by Rapid Learning Institute, learners are 75% more likely to watch a video than to read a document. However, the technical aspect to consider is the compatibility of these formats across different mobile devices and operating systems. 

Data Security

Data security is another important technical aspect to consider when implementing a Mobile Learning program. Additionally, the platform should comply with industry regulations and standards, such as GDPR and HIPAA, to ensure the privacy and security of employee data.

A report by IBM suggests that the average cost of a data breach is $3.86 million. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the Mobile Learning platform is designed with robust security features, such as encryption and two-factor authentication.

3 companies that uses Mobile learning: 

McDonald’s

The fast-food giant offers training through its “McDonald’s Worldwide Training Curriculum” app, which employees can access on their mobile devices. The app includes interactive courses, games, and quizzes to teach new skills and reinforce existing knowledge.

Walmart

The retail giant uses a mobile app called “Walmart Academy” to deliver training to its employees. The app includes videos, interactive exercises, and quizzes, and is designed to be flexible and accessible for employees at any time.

Hilton

The hotel chain offers a mobile learning platform called “Hilton Worldwide University” to its employees. The platform includes a wide range of training courses, from leadership development to technical skills training, which employees can access on their mobile devices. The platform also includes social features, such as discussion boards, to encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing among employees.

In conclusion, Mobile Learning has become an essential training approach for organizations looking to provide flexible and convenient learning experiences for their employees. However, implementing a Mobile Learning program requires careful consideration of several technical aspects, including device compatibility, network connectivity, user interface design, multimedia content, data security, and analytics and reporting. By addressing these technical aspects, organizations can ensure that their Mobile Learning programs are effective, engaging, and accessible to all employees.

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