Design and Evaluation of Mobile Learning from the Perspective of Cognitive Load Management

Abstract

Considering the ubiquitous presence of mobile devices around the globe, designing mobile interfaces into learning systems has quickly become a norm to better disseminate information to the intended audience. Existing design frameworks, however, have not fully addressed the unique features of mobile learning environments grounded in proven pedagogical frameworks. As these mobile environments enable learners to shift their cognitive engagement between virtual and physical settings, this transition from one setting to another presented new challenges to cognitive learning processes due to excessive distractions learners may encounter. With these new challenges in mind, this chapter first reviews design and learning theories grounded in cognitive load management and social learning. Then the chapter proposes a preliminary mobile learning design framework to augment existing design thinking and practice.