Devices and Operating Systems for Mobile Learning
Table of Contents
Several electronic devices may be used in mobile learning. The most popular devices may be split into two major groups: tablets and smart phones.
Tablets
Tablets are portable computing devices that are designed to be smaller and more lightweight than traditional laptop or desktop computers. They typically feature a touch screen interface and are often used for tasks such as browsing the internet, checking email, watching videos, playing games, and running apps.
There are a number of different tablet manufacturers on the market, each offering their own unique features and specifications. Some of the most popular tablet manufacturers include Apple, Samsung, Lenovo, Huawei, Amazon, and Microsoft.
Apple's iPad is one of the most well-known and popular tablets, and has been widely adopted in the education sector due to its ease of use and range of educational apps. Samsung's Galaxy Tab is another popular tablet that offers a range of features such as stylus support and multi-window functionality. Lenovo, Huawei, Amazon, and Microsoft also offer a range of tablets with different features and price points to suit different needs and budgets.
Tablets have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their portability and convenience. They offer users the ability to access information and stay connected on the go, making them a popular choice for students, business professionals, and anyone who needs to stay productive while on the move.
Smart Phones
Smartphones are mobile devices that combine the features of a traditional mobile phone with those of a handheld computer. They typically have a touch-screen interface,
access to the internet, and the ability to download and use apps from app stores. Here are some of the most popular smartphone manufacturers:
- Google: Google is the maker of the Pixel line of smartphones, which run on the Android operating system. Pixel phones are known for their high-quality cameras and integration with Google's suite of apps and services.
- Apple: Apple is the maker of the iPhone, one of the most popular smartphones in the world. iPhones run on Apple's proprietary iOS operating system and are known for their high-quality cameras, sleek design, and integration with other Apple products.
- Samsung: Samsung is a company that produces a wide range of electronic devices, including the Galaxy line of smartphones. Samsung's smartphones run on the Android operating system and are known for their large screens and high-quality displays.
- Huawei: Huawei is a company that produces a range of smartphones, including the P and Mate series. Huawei's smartphones run on the Android operating system and are known for their long battery life and advanced camera features.
Operating Systems on Mobile Devices
There are several operating systems (OS) for mobile devices. The most commonly used ones are:
- Android: developed by Google, Android is an open-source operating system based on the Linux kernel. It is used by many different manufacturers, such as Samsung, Huawei, LG, and others.
- iOS: developed by Apple, iOS is a closed-source operating system used exclusively by Apple's iPhone and iPad devices.
- Windows: developed by Microsoft, Windows is used by a variety of different devices, including smartphones and tablets.
Buying a Mobile Devices
Some of the main features to consider when buying mobile devices areWhen buying a mobile device for learning purposes, some of the key features to consider include:
- Screen size: The screen size should be large enough to comfortably read text and view images, but not so large that the device becomes cumbersome to carry around.
- Data Storage: Data storage is also an important consideration when buying a mobile device for learning purposes. Look for a device with enough internal storage
space to save your learning materials, notes, and other files. You may also want to consider a device with expandable storage options such as a microSD card slot.
Additionally, cloud storage options such as iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox can also provide additional storage options and backup for your files.
- Battery life: Look for a device with a long battery life, as this will allow you to use it for longer periods of time without needing to recharge.
- Storage capacity: Choose a device with sufficient storage capacity to store all the apps, files, and media you need for learning.
- Processing power: A powerful processor is essential for running complex educational apps and software smoothly.
- Operating system: Consider the operating system of the device, as some educational apps may only be available on specific platforms.
- Connectivity: The device should have the ability to connect to Wi-Fi or cellular networks for internet access.
- Camera: A good quality camera can be useful for taking photos of notes or documents, or for recording video lectures.
- Durability: If you plan to use the device regularly and carry it around with you, look for one that is durable and can withstand bumps and drops.
Links and Refrences
1 - The Future of Mobile Learning - https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000219637/PDF/219637eng.pdf.multi
2 - Handbook of Mobile Learning, Berge Zane, Zane L. Berge, Lin Muilenburg
Routledge, 2013.
3 - Mobile Learning: A Handbook for Educators and Trainers edited by Agnes Kukulska-Hulme, John Traxler (google book)
4 - The Evolution of Mobile Teaching and Learning edited by Retta Guy (google book)