Ubiquitous Learning and Instructional Technologies MOOC’s Updates

SOCIAL LEARNING ON UBIQUITOUS

Many m-learning researchers have noted that the quick progression of mobile technologies and wireless communication directly impacts learning. These advancements have spurred various novel issues in u-learning and m-learning, which are now being studied more in depth. U-learning and m-learning have some similarities to each other, including: permanency, accessibility, immediacy and interactivity . However, several significant characteristics of u-learning differentiate it from m-learning. For instance, u-learning includes seamless learning, context-aware computing and adaptive services . Specifically, context-aware computing is regarded as a very important technology that enables students to learn anytime and anywhere. In an ideal u-learning environment, computer communication and sensory devices are embedded and integrated into daily real life items, allowing students to immerse themselves fully into different learning situations. Based on the above concept, Yang proposed a u-learning environment, which uses context-aware technologies to provide intuitive ways for collaborators to choose appropriate learning resources according to the situation and location  Ogata and Yano also provided a context-aware language learning support system for overseas students to learn polite Japanese expressions suitable for their particular situation, or based on their personal information [8]. In essence, the context-aware feature of u-learning enables the entire to better understand and adapt to students’ behaviors and adjust for environmental parameters present in the real-world. Of the various environmental parameters, it is clear that the location should be the fundamental parameter for recognizing and describing students’ context . In this study, the MLSS has integrated GPS technologies to develop a locationaware environment for deciphering a students’ physical position, and further describe the related data around the learners. We believe that the MLSS can provide additional adaptive learning activities in a variety of outdoor and indoor settings.