Effectiveness of Indigenous Context-Aware Ubiquitous Learning Application on Distance Learners

Abstract

The objectives of the present study were to conduct situation analysis for the initiative of indigenous context- aware ubiquitous -learning system at AIOU, to construct a conceptual framework for Indigenous context-aware ubiquitous-learning system by using social constructivism approach, to develop indigenous context-aware ubiquitous learning application for online learning and to measure effectiveness of indigenous context-aware ubiquitous learning application on distance learners of higher education at AIOU. The study was delimited to the students of M.Phil and PhD year 2014 to 2016 from Education department at Allama Iqbal Open University Pakistan. It was an experimental study and carried out into four parts. The first part was situation analysis, the second was construction of conceptual framework, and third one was development of indigenous context-aware ubiquitous learning application and in the last experiment within ubiquitous-application was done on the distance learners. In the situation analysis, the study founded that majority of the students were not satisfied regarding prevailing situation of distance education system at AIOU. In the construction process of conceptual framework context –based real time learning, individual focused learning, social interactivity and collaborative learning were identified as common principals of ubiquitous learning and social constructivism theory. A context-aware ubiquitous learning application was developed on the basis of conceptual framework and the new smart features were introduced as compare to the existing LMS working at AIOU. The study founded after the experiment of ubiquitous learning application on distance learners the students have significant improvement in the results, Their satisfaction level was increased and knowledge and skills were also enhanced. The students have more v positive attitude towards use of technology after the experiment as well. It was concluded that considerable majority of the students of distance education at higher education level are not satisfied with the prevailing situation of conventional method at AIOU and they have dire need to learn through ubiquitous learning mode. The distance learners and the teachers working in distance education both are using smart technologies, internet and latest websites and they are ready to teach and learn through ubiquitous learning system. The study recommended to initiate ubiquitous learning environment which can provide a platform to the distance learners where they can avail more interactivity options, context-based real time learning experience and individual assistance according to their learning styles so To provide individual assistance, VARK online test can be used to identify the learning styles and according to their learning preferences separate dashboards of ULMS may be designed and provided for each leaner regarding course content. AIOU may develop a ULMS Mobile App to send automatic smart notifications and reminders on mobile phones and on separate dashboards of the students as well. AIOU may digitalize rest of the M.Phil courses according to the given format and similar activities may be designed to promote active and collaborative learning and to initiate ubiquitous learning by using the same domain. Kirkpatrick's 4 Levels of Evaluation model may be used to measure the effectiveness of online programs in future.