mlearn: Designing a Platform for Mobile Learning

Abstract

This chapter presents the findings of the first phase of a four-phase research study that involves the design and development of an integrated architecture for a mobile learning platform. During this phase, a high-level architecture was designed for a mobile learning platform called mLearn. The architecture of the mLearn platform allows XML multimedia content delivery over a HTTP protocol. It also uses J2ME on the client side in support of computer-aided learning approaches used in mobile learning. In addition, the mLearn platform uses several SMS delivery methods including Push, Pull and WAP Push, which enable learners to interact with each other and to share content. In this study, three defined learning approaches were chosen for the mLearn platform: exposition, exploration, and communication.