There are overÊseven billion mobile devices in the world, and mobile provides an effective and efficient way to reach, and train, employees Ð in the 21st century, learning will not be constrained by space or location. Mobile learning is not simply a matter of delivering content to mobile, it is about creating learning opportunities in a variety of environments, sharing new techniques, encouraging knowledge retention through gamification and more.
Mobile learning can boost productivity, increase profits and improve staff retention. Here are three reasons why:
Fast and efficient learning
For an industry such as hospitality, new lessons are learned everyday, whether it is a particular guest request or an easier way to clean a room. Mobile learning is intrinsically flexible, and allows new lessons to be distributed quickly. Additionally, these lessons can reach your employees anywhere, anytime. Courses can be conducted on the bus on the way to work, or before bed, meaning that learning is done according to the student’s schedule. This is perfect for Just In Time training, service update modules or reorientation in case there have been pricing changes.
Less time and space wasted
Traditional, classroom-based learning takes up time and space. Lots of it. Classroom space needs to be allocated and booked, and groups of students need to sacrifice hours of their time to attend class Ð placing more pressure on those left manning the front office or restaurants. If a student misses one class, he is unable to catch up easily without retaking that class later Ð taking up more time and space. Mobile learning overcomes this, by providing structured training modules that can be completed within a set time frame. The student is free to organize his time as he wishes, and of course there is no need to book a classroom.
Improved skill development and learning
Mobile learning actually empowers employees to learn new skills, they can choose when and where to learn and gamified elements can add a competitive edge, further encouraging participation. Furthermore, it has been proven that mobile learning results in higher knowledge retention (and according to The 2010-2011 Horizon Report, mobiles improve engagement with learning), and archived courses can be accessed at any time, in case the employee needs a refresher.
By David Topolewski
David Topolewski is Chief Executive Officer of Qooco
