Networking Issues In Mobile E Learning

Published Date: 02 Nov 2017

I would like to say a big thank you to my project supervisor Dr. Lejla Vrazalic who guided me and made this project a success. I would also like to thanks my parents for giving me the opportunity to study in this great institution (Middlesex University) that has transformed my knowledge and my way of thinking

Not to forget all my tutors who made it possible for me to be where I am today may the good lord continue to bless you all?

I want to thank my entire respondent who participated in this project. May GOD bless you all for your time and understanding?

Abstract

As of this day electronic means of supporting learning has gained a wider acceptance. The Use of E-learning and mobile Learning is attaining success throughout the world. This is as a result of innovating technologies like the web, networks and also sophisticated management systems and devices which is very much available and affordable to users. The use of e-Learning and mobile learning becomes more relevant to the public and has played important roles in various organizations and institutions. The high level of comfort with technology amongst young people and adults, thanks to the widespread use of the web and the sophisticated course management systems and e-learning platform that are affordable and available. This paper addresses the issues that may affect the prospect for distance learning E-learning or mobile-learning in an organization or institution which may have implemented or planning to incorporate e-learning for the goal of either gaining access to the learning material online or delivering of real life lectures, wider access to learning and also make the learning content available to user with no regard of proximity to campus or access. This paper will look at the issues and challenges that might affect the E-learning or mobile E-learning platform or implementation and delivery of content. It will also address this issue from the technological aspect, networking aspect, cultural aspect and economic point of view in the UAE.

Keywords

Mobile Learning, E-learning, Mobile Challenges, Connectivity, Technology Enhanced Learning, Online Education, Mobile Network, Distance Education

Chapter one

Introduction

Complete independence of both location and time is what most people describe as one of the main advantages of e-Learning. In the conventional method or traditional mode of e-learning one of the minimum hardware which is required, still remains the personal computer. So therefore there is no independence in location. As we all know that a notebook cannot present or fulfil this absolute independence. This is because the independency in time and location can deliver learning wherever you want however you want and whenever the user wants to access or have access to the learning materials or platform. This is where mobile learning comes in, Mobile learning can be defined as the next generation or e-Learning which uses modern technologies which involves various networks and networking protocols to deliver or access the e-learning platform with the aid of mobile devices or through mobile devices.

Problem Definition

E-learning today have been implemented in both institutions and organizations to deliver a good and quality learning or teaching to learners. The use of E-learning has not only been implemented in schools but has also been implemented in business and other aspect of our daily lives. E-learning did not replace the conventional method of learning but was only a transition that enhanced the conventional method or mode of learning Mobile device these days are used to access cooperate networks from either a notebook a computer or mobile phone, and this gives real time remote access. Note books have become smaller and the same time complex and also the use or wireless networks and mobile phones become popular. Many problems seem to affect the implementing mobile computing access in an e-learning environment and this affects the users and network administrators. as we all know that a cooperate information system always requires a very good network for mobile computing so that users can always gain access to share information or create an effective working environment to improve work efficiency for users and to also communicate using these mobile devices. Remotely accessing any cooperate server using any mobile device requires either the use of a wireless network, Edge network GSM 3G or 4G this study will investigate the method in which these mobile device uses to communicate to the e-learning platform and how it is delivered or presented in the mobile device how much bandwidth is utilized and if it’s the same bandwidth that is been used to access the e-learning platform with a normal computer and with a mobile device and also the constraint or difficulties of accessing the e-learning plat form from a mobile device in this region.

Literature Review

Introduction

The goal of this chapter is to look into previous studies and bring a profound understanding to what Mobile e – learning is, how it is achieved through networking infrastructure for communication, and requirements, as well as issues encountered. The specificity of this study will focus on developing countries and in terms of demographics it will be in the UAE, to try and get an understanding of the networking issues in mobile e – learning in the UAE.

The major aim of this study is to understand what e – learning is generally all about, what mobile e – learning is and how it works, the networking infrastructure components required for mobile e – learning in general, implementation of e – learning in the UAE, Mobile e- learning in the UAE and Network infrastructure in the UAE.

This study will be answering the following questions;

What exactly is e - learning?

What is Mobile e – learning and how does it work?

What are the network infrastructure components and requirements for mobile e – learning in general?

How far is e – learning in the UAE?

How far is mobile e – learning in the UAE?

How is network Infrastructure in the UAE?

Objectives

To conduct a review of literature study and understand what e – learning is, Mobile e – learning is, how these concepts differ and complement each other and their backgrounds.

To conduct a research study through literature review and interviews to Establish how far e – learning and mobile e – learning has been implemented and established in UAE Education Institutions.

To analyse literature on how mobile e-learning has been established in developed countries and how it can be used to resolve networking issues in developing countries.

To point up the technological, psychological, socio-cultural and economic factors that would affect successful implementation of e-learning and mobile E-learning for higher education in developing countries.

To conduct a literature review on networking issues on mobile e-learning

To conduct research through interviews on the challenges that have been faced in the implementation, management and administration of e – learning and mobile e - learning, the infrastructure components and requirements for mobile e – learning in general and also specifically to the UAE demographic.

‘To carry out interview on networking issues in mobile e-learning.

Background to e – learning

Haryani H. and Suriyani S. (2010) define learning as "the process by which people acquire new skills or knowledge for the purpose of enhancing their performance". Conventionally, learning takes place in a classroom setting with a teacher and students and the learning material.

With the advent of newer technologies in communication and computation, learning has changed to the better embracing new technology. Information technology (IT) enables the learning process to be conducted virtually. E-learning is the innovative way of having a system of interconnected computers, classrooms, institutions to create, store and transfer the knowledge, and skills which define new technologies (Metcalfe S., 1995). "E-learning is the use of Internet technologies to enhance knowledge and performance" (Haider K.M., 2010). This definition best puts an understanding of what e – learning is all about. Internet technologies in this definition refer to the interconnectivity of computing devices like desktops and laptops to mainframes and tablets in local area networks (LANs), Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), to enable interaction and sharing of learning content as well as assessment and feedback. The use of the Internet and Technology is the centre point of e – learning and without these then the concept of e – learning would be non-existent. Tavangarian D. et al (2004) elaborate that e – learning is having the learning activity in electronic form. This term explains the concept of learning taking place outside the classroom and also one taking place in class but with technology, that is computers and computer networks, supporting the learning process. It could also be self-taught or led by an instructor and be in form of audio, text, image animation and live streaming. This shows that e – learning is a better version of the traditional learning whereby a learner and the tutor have to be physically present in a classroom setting in order for the process of transfer of knowledge to take place. In e – learning the process of transfer of knowledge can take place either when the learner and the tutor are in the same location or when they are geographically dispersed.

This is one of the objectives of e – learning, to break the barrier of geographical location for the learning process to take place. F. Mikic and L. Anido (2009) explain in their study that e – learning is the process that makes use of the internet technology to create, manage, store and deliver educational content as well as making communication and cooperation between learners and tutors possible. It brings about a cyberspace that enables teachers and students interact in the educational realm irrespective of time and geographical location of either.

Zhou Hui (2009) looks at e – learning from the instructional designer’s point of view and defines it as learning content focussed at meeting an objective within a bigger space of platform for reach and development whereby the courses are combined with knowledge management.

Haider K.M. (2010) and C. Price (2004) however point out that some institutions or organizations have found it a challenge to implement e – learning as much as it has seemed to be established and already rooted to be a mainstream mode of offering and enhancing the learning activity. In order to get rid of some of the challenges that come about in terms of implementing and cooperating in e – learning, standardization is important. According to ISO (2002), standards have been defined as "documented agreements containing technical specifications or other precise criteria to be used consistently as rules, guidelines, or definitions of characteristics, to ensure that materials, products, processes and services are fit for their purpose". This process of bringing standards in the concept of e – learning ensures that systems and content designed for e – learning can inter operate, in terms of architecture, reference model, educational metadata, course structures, student assessment, content packaging and encapsulation, student management, runtime environments and other specifications (L. Anido, and M. Llamas, 2001).

Benefits of E – Learning

S. Alexander (2001) cites a lot of benefits that can be derived from e – learning when it is properly implemented to be used for delivery of educational content to students. Some of the benefits include better adaptation to specific student needs like those who cannot go at the same pace as the tutor, giving both students and tutors the flexibility of time when to access or deliver the learning content as well as the location since it is not necessary to be in the traditional classroom setting, bringing uniformity in the delivered content to all the students as well as the knowledge and skills being consistent across board. E- Learning also brings about the aspect of variety and giving an option to a different way or approach to learning. It also brings about efficiency in terms of re use of the content as compared to when it is delivered physically or physically documented and there is no copy to re-use or get the delivered content again. This becomes better than when a tutor has to memorise all the content or when copies have to be made for any new student when they join the class. With e – learning, it’s just a matter of accessing the digital content where it is stored and getting it as it was delivered first and if a change happens to be made then it is uniform across. E – Learning also enables increased participation from the students because every student has a personalised access and interaction with the systems and when input is expected every student has to participate and this is also good for feedback. It is also good for monitoring every student’s knowledge and skills through the individual participation and the feedback each one gives. This clearly shows that e – learning is an improvement to the conventional learning process and it focuses more on the students in order to deliver the content better as well as get better and more accurate feedback which would help to improve the students.

However, there are studies that have pointed out that the success of e – learning is mostly pegged on attitude towards technology and ability of the learner to use the technology effectively, as Liu et al (2004) points out. This explanation shows that discipline and positivity towards the use of Internet Technology is important to the effectiveness of e – learning since the learner may not even attend a traditional classroom setting or have the tutor after him/ her to perform classwork to expected levels. This is a sentiment concurred with by Kumar P. (2006), who’s study points out the need to have efficacy to perform tasks independently.

Mobile E – Learning

Mobile E – Learning or M – learning is essentially e – learning that is delivered or takes place through the use of mobile computational devices like palmtops, smart phones, MP3 players, tablets, PDAs, and any other portable device (K. Nyíri, 2002). These devices can be used for learning anywhere and at any time as long as there is connectivity to the learning content. The major motivation towards a shift towards mobile e – learning is that it has the ability to enable learning anywhere and at any time (Dieter A., 2006). J. Lee et al (2004) show in their study that mobile devices, even those with small display output have become very useful in accessing e – learning content and doing most of the basic tasks just like laptops, desktops and other stationary computing devices are used in learning institutions.

The major difference between traditional e – learning and mobile e – learning according to Dieter A. (2006) is that, traditional e – learning is based on the client – server design of operation in such a way that they have defined locations and addresses within given coverage whether wireless or cabled and they are not moved or their mobility is not there at all. On the other hand, the mobile environment of e – learning has the ability to deal with heterogeneity issues, communication protocols; both wired and wireless, and the different platforms where it has to be applied.

According to F. Mikic and L. Anido (2009), M – learning is not just e – learning by the use of mobile devices alone but it also aims to focus on some precise kinds of knowledge transfer depending on location, application, device and the learner or basically the person. This means that mobile e- learning is used where there is availability of connectivity to the learning content or learners, the subject of learning is applicable and the persons involved in the learning process understand and are able to use the technologies and gadgets at their disposal.

How Mobile E – Learning works

Learning material and content is stored in the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) (Mona M.N., 2010), where it can be accessed from anywhere, at any time. E – Learning content is accessed via Wide Area Networks and the Internet as well as Local Area Networks and Intranets. According to Dillenbourg P. (2002), the virtual learning environment components like self-registration, user management and schedule management. Van Dyke et al (2002) adds other functional components of the virtual learning environment like sharing of learning content, online assessment management, application sharing, discussion threads management, training resource management and storage management. Mobile E – learning works by connecting to the server from any location at any time. This means that learners who are using the technology could get involved in malpractices since they are not well monitored (DeLoach SA, 2001). This is one of the issues that raise concern in regard to the security of mobile E – Learning assessment management (Mona M.N., 2010). In order to correct this Mobile Agent (MA) is introduced. The connection to the learning resources is made by the mobile device through a Mobile Agent (MA) that provides an interface, medium and connectivity platform for e – learning to take place.

The development of mobile e – learning content is based on first considering how the user would view the learning content on the mobile device (Al Moser, 2012). This is because the content would appear differently when the display screen shrinks and maybe the user is not in a stationary location. They could be in a bus, train or in a hotel, where they are accessing the learning content via the mobile device. This brings the need to have design consideration of the content so that it can be properly accessed and the user is comfortable.

Continuation of Literature on Mobile E – Learning and its development & application

Mobile e – learning has grown over the short period it has been in place to be applied in many forms like video streaming and faster content uploading. According to K. Mandula et al (2012), this development has brought a new terminology to the Mobile e – learning concept known as Ubiquitous learning (u – learning). This is the form whereby the learner can access learning material from any location at any given time using a mobile computing device. According to K. Mandula et al (2012) this has been made possible by "access to technology, seamless connectivity, device ownership, interoperability, flexibility to adapt and institutional support" for this kind of technology and adaptation to mobile e – learning concept.

Rumney Moray (2011), shows that LTE 4G technology gives very high download and upload rates reaching to 326.4 Mbit/s and 86.4 Mbit/s respectively, high performance mobile data transfer of speeds in the range of 350 km/h and 500 km/h which is dependent on the frequency band in use and even support for Multicast Broadcast Single Frequency Network (MBFSN), a feature capable of delivering services such as Mobile TV. This makes Mobile Technology for e – learning look up with these possibilities.

The Third generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is the body with authority to set standards internationally on the way mobile devices are designed with specifications guided accordingly for interoperability and applications according to Chi-Hong Leung and Yuen-Yan Chan (2003). These are the same standards they used to come up with the mobile learning framework as shown in the figure below which has four levels .

Mobile learning applications

Mobile user infrastructure (browser, handheld devices)

Mobile protocol (adoption of content with WAP)

Mobile network infrastructure (cellular systems, satellites, etc.)

Figure: Mobile learning framework. Chi-Hong Leung and Yuen-Yan Chan (2003); "Mobile learning: a new paradigm in electronic learning," Advanced Learning Technologies, 2003. Proceedings on the 3rd IEEE International Conference on, vol., no., pp. 76- 80, 9-11 July 2003.

Network infrastructure components and requirements for mobile E – Learning

The virtual learning environment is basically composed of the entire Internet across the globe as long as there is connectivity. He Yan et al (2010), explain that since mobile e – learning has raised a lot of interest, the e – learning resources need to be managed for security and also sharing purposes. This is due to the growing number of users and complexity of applications run on the web as well as heterogeneity of networks.

Pathan A. S. et al (2004), explain the make-up of the infrastructure from wireless ad hoc networks and dynamically accessed networks as the mobile nodes change location from time to time. The good thing about them is that they have minimum configuration, minimum infrastructure, lower cost of deployment, can be accessed anywhere anytime and can be deployed fast, something that makes them convenient for emergency situations (Forhad R. and Ahsan A., 2007). These are being made possible by deploying access points in the areas of access or using existing mobile technologies like 3G and 4G.

The mobile e – learning framework is designed into layers of different application levels which enable communication and interaction between learners and tutors and the learning environment whereby they can access content.

The framework of a mobile e – learning infrastructure would take the following outlook format;

Source: Yin Jin (2009); Research on One Mobile Learning System. 2009 International Conference on wireless Networks and Information Systems (Page, 163)

Networking issues in Mobile E – Learning

In order to fully make use of mobile e – learning using mobility, the most appropriate modes of networking or initiating and enabling connection between the mobile devices and servers where the learning content is stored or being delivered from in the case of live streaming, would either be a wireless network (Ad Hoc or Wi-Fi) or mobile telecommunication network service (3G or 4G) (Yin Jin, 2009). The current Global System for mobile communications (GSM), Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE) and General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) have bandwidth specifications in between 20 kbps and 400 kbps (Stephan Brumme, 2011) but because of the current increased mobile usage this bandwidth provided streaming becomes an issue since the bandwidth is not sufficient for real time mobile video streaming.

In Mobile and wireless network connections, transmission is directly dependent on the file size, hence, the larger the files the more the cost of transmission (K. Mandula et al, 2012). Live streaming or progressive streaming means that these are large video files being downloaded to the mobile device. These mobile devices are usually running on a battery so this drains the battery which is very crucial in the concept of mobile e – learning.

Some learning resources are usually designed for e – learning in the desktops and wired network environment where the bandwidth is perfect for transferring the content as well as the desktop environment is suitable for presenting the content to either the learner or the instructor but when it comes to the wireless and mobile environment, constraints of network bandwidth, limitations of mobile device specifications and technology in place to adapt the content to the presentation environment becomes an issue (Z. Gang and Y. Zongkai, 2005). According to A. Giemza et al (2012), the best connectivity networking technologies available currently for mobile devices like 3G and LTE/4G, they are expensive for the common school based programs or student learner environment to adopt and use.

Despite the solution of LTE/ 4G to the issues of bandwidth and speed, mobility is still limited at the infrastructure level where by the technology is only available in the major and advanced locations like the cities (Hagen P. et al, 2005). The lack of the technology in all the places makes mobility an issue hence learners and instructors cannot be able to fully exploit the benefits offered by the technology.

Managing and assessing learning achievement is still a challenge that has not been solved even with the advancement of the technology (Kjeldskov J. and J. Stage, 2004). It is actually enhanced further due to the increased mobility and less contact between learners and instructors. This is due to the fact that mostly they are mobile and in different locations.

Feature Components of Mobile E - Learning

There are some major features that are available in every form of mobile learning that enable the execution of the activity be it with the learners, teachers, and content delivery system (Yin Jin, 2009). These include mobility, which means that as long as one is within the area covered by a wireless network (Ad Hoc or Wi-Fi) or mobile telecommunication network service (3G or 4G), then it doesn’t matter the location, learning and content access will take place. Real time access is another feature that is common, whereby, content access is anytime anywhere due to availability on mobility both for learners and instructors. Interactivity is the feature that enables communication between learners and instructors in real time. Virtualization is a feature that has been achieved in Mobile e – learning whereby there can be virtual classrooms, virtual instructors and the whole interaction between students and teachers is made virtual and dynamic. The use of digital media like audio, video, live streaming, motion pictures, presentations and many other forms makes mobile e – learning digitized, and finally, individualized aspect of the whole concept whereby each student can get personalised profiles and services according to their needs and subjects on offer is a feature very common and useful component of mobile e – learning.

E – Learning in the UAE

In the UAE, e – learning has been used in areas like institutions of education, a case being Hamdan bin Mohammed e – university where by learning takes place in electronic format and no physical traditional classes are available at the location. The university has implemented a learning management system which creates a virtual learning environment for accessing course material and participation in learning and teaching in many forms including video, audio, motion graphics, downloadable learning material and so many others (online). Apart from this case, others institutions have also implemented e – learning in many other forms like having learning material online to complement the conventional traditional classrooms. Use of dashboard applications like the Unihub (online), an application on a portal whereby users, both tutors and learners, have managed access to and get into to get learning content, submit assignments, post discussions and have virtual sessions, and many other activities depending on the institution and the level of use. Some of the universities using this dashboard system in the region include Middlesex UniversityDubai, University of Wollongong Dubai, Herriot Wart University Dubai, British University in Dubai, American University in Dubai and many more. Some of the major e – learning support players in the region includes Humansoft, Edutech, XpertLearning, Productivity4u and AAST (AME, 2005).

Another area or industry that has seen implementation or uptake of e – learning in the UAE is the banking industry. The major objective of adopting e – learning in the banking industry was to combat money laundering (A. A. Hammadi et al, 2007). This technology has helped in teaching about compliance and keeping employees and others personnel informed and up to date on anti-money laundering issues (P. Kendler, 2004).

Other major players who have adopted e – learning, as of the year 2005, were regional and multinational businesses (AME, 2005), like the Emirates Airline, Xerox, Saudi Aramco, Daimler Chrysler, Dubai e – government and ABN Amro.

However, with all these benefits and need for e – learning in the UAE being highlighted, quite a number of educational and financial institutions have not yet adopted this "futuristic" technology which could be said to replace the traditional methods of learning as they are known. One of the reasons as to why they have not adopted it is complexity (A. A. Hammadi et al, 2007), in this case being that the technology is considered as not easy to implement, use and learn about. A learner would first have to learn how to implement, learn how to use the technology before finally learning the content of subject matter. This complexity issue makes it easy for users not to be ready to use that technology.

CONCLUSSION

The study shows that e-learning has been implemented in this region, and it is still growing like in other part of the world they have several open universities that have been accredited to operate a fully distance educational system, while here in the UAE the most popular e-learning has been implemented almost everywhere but not too many institution operate an open learning environment.

Chapter

Research Methodology.

Introduction

The main purpose of this section is to explain the approach which was implemented to achieve the main objectives and also the main aim of this project. There are justifications to show why this method was selected for this project and this methodology was reviewed constantly throughout the project.

Literature reviewed for the networking issues that can affect E-learning and mobile E-learning , has proved that there are other issues that can also affect E-learning and mobile E-learning these literature has proven that the networking issues is not just the only issue or challenge that can affect E-learning and mobile E-learning. Literature reviewed which were carried out in other areas has shown that these limitations has been identified. Are these the same issues that would affect mobile E-learning or E-learning in the UAE?

Purpose of the Study

The study was developed to investigate the networking issues that might affect or affects mobile learning and e-learning not only for educational purpose but also for any other purpose that involves the use of e-learning or mobile e-learning in the region, and also how far it has been implemented in the region compared to other developed region or countries. If the technologies implemented in other region is the same as what is currently been used in this region. The study also looks at the benefits challenges and the future of mobile learning and e-learning in UAE and also recommendations from other developing countries or region.

Interview was conducted from all stakeholders involved, from institutions, E-learning service developers or implanters and service providers as well as users.

Research design /Approach.

The research method for this project was a qualitative research technique based on interviews from respondent and literature review, I chose these technique for obtaining data because it gives and in depth description to researcher which will generate more accurate information’s in the study.

Qualitative research can also be defined as "process" which links both factors together (Mohr 1982, pp.40)

I had to contact my correspondent by email to set up and interview date and time that would be convenient for them to conduct an interview. Data were Obtained from two higher institutions that have implemented E-learning and one of which who operate a complete E-learning and mobile learning platform here in the UAE. Five interviews was conducted and four of the five interviews were recorded (Audio) the purpose of the recording was to get feedback from the interviewees to enable me listen over the interview thoroughly for my analysis Data was obtained from E-learning implanters and service providers.

Before the start of any the aim and objectives of the project were provided to them and the interviewees were also notified that the interview or data obtained will be used for academic purpose only. The project topic was to discover the networking issues in mobile E-learning and E-learning in the region and to know the latest technologies which have been implemented in other region and also to find out the level at which mobile e-learning and e-learning have been implemented in the region.

The data which were collected were analyzed and well understood after going over them several times to be able to get the main points out of them and also to understand what message and information correspondent was trying to convey.

Data obtained from the interview were transcribed and the main ideas that were in line with the topic were transcribed and information’s that were outside my study context were left aside.

The profile of all correspondent have been listed to enable the reader know the level of understanding or knowledge that the correspondent has in relation to the chosen study are research objectives, and their response has aided in knowing what E-learning and mobile E-learning is from their various point of views and to also understand not just the networking issues in E-learning mobile E-learning and this has assisted in understanding more about this study. The respondent are been listed below.

Dr Mrs Mona El Ayoubi Learning & Innovations Strategies, Director Hamdan Bin Mohammed E-University UAE Dubai

They are one of the first movers of E-learning in this region ‘’ and having been the first accredited e-learning academic institution by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research’’.

Joseph Aninias, IT Manager Wollongong University Dubai (UOWD)

The University of Wollongong in Dubai is a branch of Wollongong University Australia which offers various courses ranging from under graduate studies and post graduate studies.

Tom Childs

They implement e-learning strategies within organization throughout the Middle East.

Dr . Fehmida Hussain. Engineering and Information Sciences Lecturer

Middlesex University Dubai Knowledge village Dubai UAE.

London’s First and Only University in Dubai

What is e – learning and its difference from mobile e – learning?

This question was asked to know the correspondent point of view regarding E-learning and mobile E-learning, Due to the fact that E-learning has various definition the question was asked to get a new definition of E-learning and Mobile Learning. This question would act as a pillar or a starting point for the interview and discussion for obtaining data

Have you implemented e – learning in your institution (instructors and IT support)?

This question was asked to know if the organization or institution have implemented or do any E-learning or mobile E-learning course or if in any way the organization or institution has used E-learning or Mobile E-learning to support that organization or institution.

Have you used e – learning and / or mobile e – learning as a substitute to conventional model of learning (instructors and learners)?

The question was asked to be fully informed of what the correspondent have to say with the advent of technology today and how technology has transformed the traditional method or conventional method of learning and how well do they use E-learning in their institution or organization and if Mobile learning has improved the or aided they delivery of E-learning.

Is e – learning better than conventional model of learning? If so, why? If not, why?

This question was asked to know how technology has aided the conventional method of learning which involves the use of classroom and a chalk board for delivery of content to students audience, also how technology has driven or changed they way lectures are delivered now or lecture delivery and also being able to communicate or participate from a different location order than the conventional method of learning or delivering lectures to people with the aid of mobile device, This will point out some advantages and also some set back with the use of mobile device to access the E-learning platform.

How far has e – learning/ Mobile e – learning been implemented in the UAE (service providers and regulators)?

This question was asked to know if E-learning and mobile E-learning is currently been used in the region if all organizations use it in one way or the other, and if so how many people organization has implemented the use of E-learning and also to have an idea of how many registered mobile device they have in record and how many percentage of those device are subscribed to 3G or 4G networks.

What are the regulations and/ or limitations which have been put in regard mobile e – learning implementation and usage (regulators, service providers, support and instructors)?

This question was asked to know if there are any laws set aside by the telecom providers, service providers and government that would hinder or affect the implementation of E-learning in an organization in this region and also to know if there are certain rules and regulations or standards to follow, or abide to in an organization that is using E-learning or mobile E-learning.

What are the major networking/ technical issues which come up in the implementation of mobile e – learning (support, service providers and government regulators)?

This question was asked to know the challenges they face technically when implementing or using E-learning and Mobile E-learning

What are the social – cultural challenges and benefits in the implementation of mobile e – learning?

This question was asked to find out the benefit of E-learning and mobile E-learning and also the challenges they face from the biggest to the smallest any challenge in general being it social or cultural.

Do you think mobile e – learning implementation in the region is at par with the rest of the developed world, either statistically or by perception?

This question was asked to know how far E-learnign and mobile E-learning has been implemented in this region and if it is at the same levels with other developed countries both in the middle east and also in Europe.

What are the economic / financial factors that would affect the implementation of mobile e – learning both positively and negatively?

This question was asked to know the factors that could affect the implementation or progression of introducing E-learning to a Mobile E-learning to any organization or institution that has not yet started to use these technologies.

What level of support do the regulators give in regard to successful implementation and operation of mobile e – learning in institutions in the region?

This question was asked to know if the telecommunication authorities do support successful implementation and operation of mobile e – learning.

Conclusion

Analysis

Introduction

In this chapter we will discuss and analyse the data obtained from our interview that was recorded and transcribed. As proposed in the previous chapter. These the data obtained have been segmented to match each area which the interview question is related to.

Some of these area which are Mobile Learning E-learning and the networking issues that can affect mobile learning, the advantages, challenges recommendation and as well as possible solutions that have been implemented in other developed country to see if it can also be implemented in this region.

To be able to successfully achieve this, literature which were obtained in the previous chapter and data obtained from the interview or results obtained from the interview. The interview data has been transcribed to prove and also serve as evidence of my research; reference to this claim can be made in the appendices for more information.

During the interview it was clear that majority of the people whom i interviewed have a clear knowledge of e-learning and they could also differentiate e-learning from mobile e-learning.

Accepting E-learning

Data which were obtained from the interview showed that most of the every participant had used e-learning in one way or the other regardless to what they do with it. They also agreed that the conventional method of learning which was learning in the classroom or the process learning that tutor being in the same location with the learner has transformed and it has made learning very easy for both the tutor and the learner. Mr. Joseph Annias explained the evolution of the conventional mode of learning and how it transformed from chalk board in the physical classroom to he gave an example of how a tutor would ask a question in the conventional way of learning . He said in the conventional way of learning a tutor would use a chalk board to write the question out so that every on could see it in class and would ask who knew the answer to the question and all the student will have to answer buy raising their hands up so that he /she can pick who would answer that question. He further more explained that technology has transformed that conventional method of learning to an electronic means of learning he said in the e-learning platform the student may have device so that they could vote with an electronic voting machine or an electronic pen to show what the students writes on the electronic paper that can be projected to the screen so he said that the goal of passing an information to a student has remained unchanged but what has changed is the way which that information has been passed onto the student or learner with the aid of IT or technology. In the literature Haryani H. and Suriyani S. (2010) defined e-learning as