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Comunicar Journal 33: Cybermedia and mobile phones (Vol. 17 - 2009)

Mobile learning as a tool for the development of communication skills in virtual discussion boards

https://doi.org/10.3916/c33-2009-02-009

Liliana Marcos-López

Rosina Támez-Almaguer

Armando Lozano-Rodríguez

Abstract

Technology has revolutionized all aspects of human life and the educational field is no exception. This research proposes the use of mobile learning (m-learning) as a tool for development of communication skills in virtual discussion boards. It took place inside the virtual classrooms of the Virtual University of Tecnológico de Monterrey with 80 20-to-22-year-old undergraduates. Podcasts of the assigned readings were made. The control group performed the activity in the traditional way, while the sample group used the podcasts to perform the activity. The findings show that mobile learning doesn´t provide significant changes in the student's skills. However, it can be an alternative for the development of critical analysis in undergraduate students.

Keywords

E-learning, m-learning, podcasts, blogs, critical analysis, communication skills, discussion boards, virtual classroom

PDF file in Spanish

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