A few weeks ago we reported on the future trends for mobile or m-learning. The reality of this comes a step closer this week, with training provider KnowledgePool linking up with Vodafone to develop WAP technology courses.
The initial courses will be made available to corporate customers, who will also be able to attend training sessions on using WAP technologies for training.
KnowledgePool aren't the only company working on m-learning: in September TrainingZONE spoke to Donald Clark, CEO of Epic Group Plc, who described how they had taken a stake in Digital Bridges, a mobile telephony company to develop technology for mobile learning.
Other companies on the m-learning trail include Global Knowledge, who have developed an 'm-learning guide', software to be used for Palm or other Personal Digital Assistants. Using 'm-learning guide' allows access to Global Knowledge's existing course materials for reference or to check their own existing knowledge using question-and-answer sessions. At the moment the technology only allows access to IT courses such as MCSE, UNIX or JavaScript being currently offered by the company.
If you know of a company that's developing m-learning, let us know by adding a comment below.
Being the owner of a WAP phone I can testify to the concepts complete bloody uselessness with the current state of the networks; it's too slow and consequently too pricey, and current WAP content too boring - watching paint dry is better alternative to using WAP technology.
At the moment WAP is the biggest hyped, biggest let down in the technology markets for several years. (Blue tooth may displace it from its top table position this year.)
I suspect that the much touted 3G technology which is meant to role out in Britain in a couple years and revitalise WAP will in fact turn out to be damp squib, I base this on various reports which detail speed problems with this new medium and once again the reality will fall well short of the promises.
The ‘killer’ application in WAP has yet to be found and until speed, price and content issues are resolved it likely to remain hidden. Even so, I doubt that it will be located in the training and development field.
