m-Learning: The Usage of WAP Technology in e-Learning

—This paper presents the experience of Arab Open University; AOU for short; on using WAP technology in mobile learning; m-Learning. The goal is to enhance e-Learning aspects of the existing learning management systems (LMS); e.g. Moodle. In addition to presenting technical aspects of the WAP, we also introduce the advantages and disadvantages of using WAP technology in the learning process. Furthermore, a description of AOU's learning management system with the outcomes of the tutors and students is introduced. This paper discusses also the suit-ability and feasibility of using WAP technology devices for distance learning in real-time. I. INTRODUCTION As technology rapidly advances, new ideas for learning will also emerge. Computer-mediated communication (CMC) facilitates the development of such learning communities. In the broadest sense, CMC refers to any communication via computers; common applications include e-mail, online bulletin board, and online chat. The most important educational affordance of CMC lies in its con-nectivity: it connects learners at different geographical locations beyond the boundaries of classrooms; allows learners to exchange information within a short period of time synchronously or asynchronously; and provides the flexibility for one-to-one, one-to-many and many-to-many communication. Connectivity among learners is critical for a learning community, without which social construction of collective knowledge would be greatly impeded. The growth of Internet-based technology have brought new opportunities and methodologies to education and teaching representing in e-learning, online learning, distance learning, and open learning. These approaches are typically use in place of traditional methods and mean that students deliver their knowledge though the web rather than face-to-face tutoring. e-Learning is a new trend of education system, where students deliver their materials through the web. e-Learning is the "use of internet technology for the creation , management, making available, security, selection and use of educational content to store information about those who learn and to monitor those who learn, and to make communication and cooperation possible." [1]. Kevin [2] addressed the benefits of e-learning for both parties: organization and learners. Advantages of organizers are reducing the cost in terms of money and time. Learning time reduced as well, the retention is increased, and the contents are delivered consistently. On another