Introducing Ubiquitous Learning Concepts – Industry Examples, Revision 1

Technology enables anywhere-anytime learning experiences that redefine the traditional space and time definitions and limitations. Teacher-centric learning shifts to learner-centric experiences based on a rapidly expanding set of learning infrastructure resources.

Example 1 - Mobile Learning

iPad and Surface tablets are now commonplace learning tools on NFL and college football sidelines. An innovative Colorado company (www.playerlync.com ) got started as a mobile content management system (CMS) for football and basketball playbooks. Playbooks are very dynamic based on real time updates reflecting strategy, personnel, weather, etc. The need to update players and coaches before and during games is critical. Playerlync has expanded the use of their CMS for training in restaurants and retail locations where menus, merchandise, practices and procedure change rapidly and associates need continuous updates.  http://blogs.wsj.com/cio/2014/09/22/chipotle-tests-training-tools-designed-for-the-nfl/

What’s impressive to me is the speed of adoption in both the NFL and the QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) spaces.  Neither industry is known for its innovation, but in both cases mobile learning technology has been successfully adopted.

In a related story, the NFL is sponsored by Microsoft.  The Microsoft Surface Pro has been the preferred tablet for NFL teams.  Yesterday New England’s coach, Bill Bilichek, said that he has given up on using the Surface Pro during the games.  The new story went on to say that the problems Bilichek had on Sunday were due to Wi-Fi failures at Gillette Stadium, not the Surface Pro.   https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/early-lead/wp/2016/10/18/bill-belichick-spent-five-good-minutes-on-why-hes-done-with-nfls-sideline-tablets/

Example 2 - Learner Developed Content

The second module in this course introduces the progression from knowledge consumption to knowledge production.  The following is an example.

Annually ATD recognizes the top corporate and government learning programs through the ATD BEST Awards. Jiffy Lube has often been recognized for its programs. In the beginning Jiffy Lube learning professionals create all the learning materials, generally short instructional videos on how to provide efficient service offerings.  After feedback from franchisees, learning leaders solicited training videos from franchisees and recognized top submittals with both monetary rewards and recognition at major events. The cost of training development dropped dramatically and the quality improved when learners created the training on improved processes and procedures.  Jiffy Lube is now a part of Shell Oil.  https://www.bobpikegroup.com/Resources/Trainer-Blog/420