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 * THE PROCESSES AS PEOPLE INTERACT **


 * Introduction**

Working on the assumption that a blended learning environment is the accepted platform and that the online material is largely mediated through a Learning Management System then there are classically 2 modes of interaction between the teachers, the students and the content material.


 * 1) 1. Face-to- face interaction
 * 2) 2. Online interaction through computers

The availability of mobile devices adds a third dimension and because the perceived problem is that both students and staff or not utilizing the capabilities of the online component to the full extent possible the use of mobile devices is seen as a way to leverage fuller and better use of the online environment.

Figure 1 below illustrates the basic educational interaction. In figure 2 Anderson and Elloumi show how this is expressed in an online learning environment.

Figure 1. Educational Interactions

Figure 2. A Model of Online Learning

The particular contribution that a mobile component can make towards strengthening the educational interactions is below:


 * 1) 1. __Student with content__

This will make use of the ability to connect to the internet via a cell phone. Important factors to consider will include:
 * the size of files
 * the capabilities of the average level phone so as not to disadvantage the student with an inferior phone
 * reliable computer access and connectivity for those students
 * Capability to ask questions and receive answers fairly quickly
 * Regular feedback on the quality of the interaction (from teachers and learners)


 * 1) 2. __Student to student interaction__

Factors to consider here include:
 * This would need to be seen as something apart from normal social networks. Mixing work and play is not a good idea!
 * Consideration might be given to having dedicated social network sites for the individual classes
 * Creating more work and to do so artificially needs to be avoided
 * Consultation and collaboration with students to systems in place should be considered.
 * Forums and chat rooms should be included with some thought to giving structure initially to kick-start communication.


 * 1) 3. __Student to teacher interaction__

Improved communication is crucial. This might be achieved in a number of ways with each one serve as a help to the other.
 * At this stage pure mobile learning may not be feasible although movement in that direction should be a deliberate target
 * The use of cell phones should serve to enhance and stimulate the other levels of interaction
 * Finding a balance between the F2F and the online elements should be sought deliberately
 * Duplication should be avoided. Use of the online environment simple as a way of storing and transmitting information should be avoided.
 * More interactive material should be provided and discussion about what happens F2F and online should be facilitated by mobile technology

The ultimate goal is improved interactivity at all these levels. The use of mobile technology should be explored deliberately and not as an optional extra in improving interaction. However the drive should always remain good pedagogy rather than the mere use of interesting technology.