Learning in a u-Museum: Developing a context-aware ubiquitous learning environment

an article by Chia-Chen Chen (Tunghai University, Taiwan) and Tien-Chi Huang (National Taichung University of Science and Technology, Taiwan) published in Computers & Education Volume 59 Issue 3 (November 2012)

Abstract

Context-awareness techniques can support learners in learning without time or location constraints by using mobile devices and associated learning activities in a real learning environment. Enrichment of context-aware technologies has enabled students to learn in an environment that integrates learning resources from both the real world and the digital world.

Although learning outside of the traditional classroom is an innovative teaching approach, the two main problems are the lack of proper learning strategies and the capacity to acquire knowledge on subjects effectively. To manage these problems, this study proposes a context-aware ubiquitous learning system (CAULS) based on radio-frequency identification (RFID), wireless network, embedded handheld device, and database technologies to detect and examine real-world learning behaviours of students.

A case study of an aboriginal education course was conducted in classrooms and at the Atayal u-Museum in Taiwan. Participants included elementary school teachers and students. We also designed and used a questionnaire based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) theory to measure the willingness for adoption or usage of the proposed system.

The experimental results demonstrated that this innovative approach can enhance their learning intention. Furthermore, the results of a post-test survey revealed that most students’ testing scores improved significantly, further indicating the effectiveness of the CAULS.

Highlights

► A u-Museum was empirically developed to preserve Taiwan's Atayal culture.
► The paper aims to design a context-aware u-learning system with RFID technology.
► The results showed the system is useful in achieving museum-like learning experiences.
► The results are helpful for the integration of authentic tasks into outdoor teaching.
► The UTAUT model is suitable to examine the extent of adoption u-learning system.

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