First Mobile Learn App Goes Live: iPad

We recently announced plans for Bb Mobile Learn – our shot at enabling the things we need to do as students and as part of our coursework for the mobile world.  And while the apps we’re building won’t go live until June, Bb Mobile Learn debuts today on one of the most interesting devices we’ve seen since the iPhone – one that has real potential to change education and the way people access the Web and all that comes with it.

Every time we approach a new device or mobile platform – whether it’s iPhone OS, BlackBerry or Android – we get excited about the possibilities for how we can leverage that particular device or that particular platform to enhance the student experience.  We get locked in on the design elements or platform supports that give us the chance to do something really distinctive and cool as we build out our applications.  That’s certainly the case with the iPad: not quite laptop and certainly not mobile phone, it’s an altogether different medium.  And one that’s well suited to student needs and preferences.  

Navigating a course on this device is very different.  The touch screen interface and size of the device makes it perfect for many of the things we want to do in our courses, from viewing lectures to posting comments on a discussion board.  Even if many students opt to go laptop for longer assignments or tests or go smartphone for a quick glance at schedules or course updates, there’s clear value in the iPad as learning device for getting done most of what you would online.

And Bb Mobile Learn on the iPad is fun.  Like anything else that’s popular on the Web or delivered by a really cool device, it makes you want to dig in and spend time there.  As we’ve tested our application, I have constantly found myself logging in just to play around.  I’ll bet that many students will find themselves doing the same, almost forgetting that they’re doing “work.”  For a look at it yourself, check out this short video demo.

 

We hope students – and institutions – are as excited about this app as we are.  Because Bb Mobile Learn creates access to a good deal of secure information, institutions need to enable the app first – a free and easy process – before students can see their own information in the app.  There’s a growing number of institutions that have already enabled access, and students can check HERE to see if their campus is included.

We’re excited about the opportunities that new devices like these and evolved smartphones create for mobile learning.  It’s hard to think that we’re not involved now in one of those moments that, when looking back later, represents a real shift in a particular industry.  

We’re anxious to hear your feedback on this and all things mobile learning. Chime in here with your thoughts on our plans and what you’re seeing in this space.

Happy learning.

Comments

[Ryan Bowse]

Kayvon great post and video. Very impressive stuff. Keep up the great work.

[Cunninghamg]

Why is the iPad app only available in the US i Tunes app store? When will it become available on the Australian store?