Evaluation and Promotion of M-Learning Accessibility for Smart Education Development

Abstract

Young people’s involvement with their mobile devices is often considered a problem nowadays. However, with the new “learning on the go approach” it can be used for good: for learning purposes, in particular in higher education. The m-learning tools have the potential to turn learning into a more attractive, interesting and motivating process of acquiring new knowledge and developing competencies. At the same time, m-learning can be inclusive of people with special needs, who used to be detached from traditional educational services. In our paper we purpose an evaluation approach to mobile learning software accessibility based on accessibility guidelines and standards. We suggest a formalization of the approach and reducing it to a controlled process. The dedicated usage of mobile devices and m-learning software can assist in improving mental operations speed, executive control of information selection and decision-making, as well as optimize the memorization system. Such enhancements are particularly important for facilitating effective learning in the elderly and the people with disabilities.