Mobile learning (mLearning) is using mobile devices like smartphones and tablets for educational purposes. It allows learning to occur anywhere and anytime since the devices are portable and can connect to the internet wirelessly. Spending on mobile learning is estimated to reach $246.9 million in 2011 as mobile devices continue gaining popularity starting with iPods and evolving to include smartphones and tablets. Mobile devices expand eLearning through their portability, ability to instantly access the internet and other features like cameras, music players, GPS, and messaging capabilities.

1. Mobile Learning, Mobile App Development, Mobile Apps in the Classroom Ray Pastore, Ph.D. [email_address] Assistant Professor of Instructional Technology University of North Carolina Wilmington

2. Topics What is? Why use mobile devices in education? How is mobile learning being used in education? Developing your own apps

3. Introduction Increase Popularity Started with the Ipod Mobile phones – multimedia then smart Pads - ipad GPS Ambient Insight, LLC estimates that 246.9 million dollars will be spent on mobile learning in 2011

4. mLearning expands eLearning to include Can be carried easily in a pocket or purse Can be used ‘on the go’, i.e., on the job or en route Can be turned on instantly without the need to boot up Is Internet capable through a service or wifi connection Has other identifiable features such as word processing ability, html browser, SMS messaging, Camera, MP3 player, GPS, etc.