A Proposed Tool for Mobile Collaborative Reading

This chapter presents a tool for collaborative elearning using handheld devices that incorporates pair communication via text and speech input. It discusses the current state of e-learning for mobiles and illustrates the lack of such tools in reading comprehension domains. It then describes the tool development as a model for interface design, communication strategies, and data manipulation across mobile platforms. It is argued that such a tool can enhance e-learning among children, due to freedom of movement and variety of input (text and speech). The design is centered on a proven paper-based collaborative learning methodology which should strengthen its effectiveness. A paper prototype test that assisted in determining optimum interface layout and confirming that speech input was preferred among children is described. The system was developed and designed using creative strategies for interface layout and data manipulation. Lessons learned and plans for additional research are discussed.