Outline - Topic 5 - How is mobile learning related to cognitive tools?
Mobile learning depends on the mobility of technology, and technology can be used as cognitive tools. Therefore, mobile learning has the potential to enhance students' cognition.
Cognitive tools are generalizable computer tools that are intended to engage and facilitate cognitive processing (Kommers, Jonassen, & Mayes, 1992). Cognitive tools are also mindtools that have been adapted or developed to enable learners to represent what they know (Jonassen, 2005). Mobile devices such as handheld computers can function as intellectual partners that share the cognitive burden of carrying out tasks, such as calculating, storing, and retrieving information (Chen, Tan, Looi, Zhang, & Seow, 2008). Mobile devices can be used as cognitive tools also because of their mobility and the affordances of apps. The mobility of devices allows students to easily move around by holding the devices. Meanwhile, they can connect to online resources or their group members for online sharing and discussion. Also, mobile devices such as mobile phones become more powerful and can run a variety of apps. Many of the apps can be functioned as cognitive tools when students are engaged in critical thinking and problem solving. An example of using handheld computers as cognitive tools is reported in Chen, et al (2008), where handheld computers are used to facilitate inquiry-based learning among primary school students in a field trip, on some environmental issues in Singapore, namely 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle). If you have any experience of using mobile devices to support student learning, in particular using mobile devices as cognitive tools, you are welcome to share it as a comment.
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