Title:	M-ECO-LEARN: THE EVOLUTION FROM PAPER TO PDA IN ECOTOURISM FIELD WORK
Author(s):	Nellie De Crom , Annette De Jager
ISBN:	972-8924-15-1
Editors:	Pedro Isaías, Piet Kommers and Inmaculada Arnedillo Sánchez
Year:	2006
Edition:	Single
Keywords:	Ecotourism training, field work, educational, PDA, mobile learning.
Type:	Full Paper
First Page:	65
Last Page:	72
Language:	English
Cover:
Full Contents:	click to dowload
Paper Abstract:	Ecotourism means nature-based tourism with an educational, economical and spiritual dimension. Educated ecotourism practitioners have many advantages for the industry and to conservation. To provide well-trained practitioners, learners in Ecotourism at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), South Africa, receive extensive training in nature-based subjects, both theoretical and practical. The objective of this study was to determine how mobile devices could be used to enhance and support learners in Ecotourism during compulsory field trips. PDAs were gradually introduced as (1) an aid to clarify certain phenomena in the natural environment and for data gathering, (2) to provide tasks, assignments and information electronically to replace the conventional paper-based workbook, and (3) to apply these devices as a tool in simulated real-life career situations. Results of this study indicate interest and captivated attention from learners while using PDAs during field trips. Learners no longer have to carry heavy books during field work. Most of what is immediately needed is on the PDA. Results also show increased motivation and more outcome-based appropriate opportunities when using PDAs. Both lecturer and learners benefit from the features and tools of the PDA. Learning experiences increased and learners are cognitively occupied during field trips. The availability of multimedia programmes for PDAs proves to be highly effective for identification and hands-on information retrieval. However, evaluation methods need to be adapted as the learners’ approach to addressing problems, answering questions and debating issues on mobile devices differs from the traditional pen-and-paper based methods. The data gathered from this study indicates a variety of possibilities in the use of mobile technology to support and enhance the field learning experience of the learner, as well as the teaching experience of the lecturer.
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