An ontology-based framework for mobile learning in rural secondary schools

Abstract

In some countries mobile learning is becoming an important issue in academic institutions, as teachers and students get connected to networks through smart phones that combine telephony, computing, messaging and multimedia. However, in rural areas the process of designing, communicating and presenting learning resources, content services and learning content for mobile learners poses challenges. Teachers and students are not able to connect to networks for the purposes of learning and teaching. Therefore an enabler framework for this purpose becomes necessary. Those who connect to the Internet are not able to get precise and relevant content that meets their requirements and needs. This is due to poor internet connectivity, lack of semantics on content, inaccurate searches and information overload. This paper proposes a solution to some of the challenges by designing a conceptual ontology-based framework for mobile learning which could be used in rural secondary schools. The framework takes into account the following: a knowledge base, ontology, software agents, learning resources and learning/teaching content. Agents search for learning objects and extract knowledge according to learner and teacher/instructor profiles. The proposed framework would facilitate collaboration, sharing of ideas, instruction flow and access to learning and teaching content with accuracy, anytime from anywhere.

Keywords:

• learner profile
• mobile learners
• mobile learning
• ontology
• ontology based framework
• teacher profile

JEL classification:

• L96
• A21
• M15