Writing content for mLearning 2

Following on from my last blog, I have been working on constructing formative questions to be trialled on etxt. There are distinct limitations to the size (160 characters) and overall format (text only). However, working within these, it is still possible to provide a range of question types. These include multiple choice, short answer, “cloze test” / fill in the blanks, sorting and matching question types.

During the trial, I will probably send out 2 questions a day over a working week. A total of 10 questions. After that, it will be a case of asking participants

• which question type they preferred.
• how many questions they would be able to respond to during their working day.
• would having all the questions sent out on the same day be manageable?
• how each question type displayed on their mobile phone.
• which question type was the most difficult or cumbersome to read.
• which question type was the most difficult or time consuming to put in an answer to.

I also did some further exploration into the methods for disseminating comic strips to mobile phones. Only 3G capable phones receive the comic strips due to the amount of data that has to be transmitted. Specialised software is required to convert conventional pictures into the comic strip form suitable for transfer via cell phones. There are some good examples on uclickmobile of what is possible with current technology. Clicking on the examples at the bottom of the uclick mobile website brings up good examples of their daily comic mobile cast. Short snippets of content for learning are ideal resources for conversion into a graphical / comics presentation style. Who wants to read dense screens of text on food safety when a simple comic could convey they same message? The comic strip format would be suitable for short, discreet learning outcomes or be used as adjuncts to larger learning units.

A start may be made by using a slide show concept which is contains a small amount of text and a simple diagram to extend on the short text description that is provided. The slide show could also be supported by an audio file as most G3 phones now have the ability to also be used as MP3 players. The slide show could then be supported by a short 2 to 3 minute podcast.