Global Mobile Learning

Hi!

I currently work for Queensland Health.  At this point in time this organisation has not encouraged it's employees in relation to mobile learning.

It is interesting to note that as a Registered Nurse, we are encouraged not to access our mobile phones whilst working on any hospital ward, particularly in Coronary Care as mobile devices can interefer with cardiac monitoring technology.

I had a patient that had his mobile phone near his artifical pacemaker and the nursing staff witness heaps of artifact of pacing spikes on the cardiac monitor.  Needless to say, the patient was informed to switch his mobile device off.

Learning on the go is a reflection of our society and the fast pace of life we all face.  Learn anywhere and at any time is a great concept and one that I only embraced last year.  Whilst doing my tax return, I found out I can claim for a certain amount of internet time for work.  This has been great because in our ward we have mini exams without notice.  Often, I will try and take my morning tea break and do a quick revision using a google search engine.

I am not mobile savy as yet as I only got a standard phone and a laptop.  My friends are always buying the latest devices which all cost money.  So this concept of learn anywhere and at any time is only available to people that are computer literaturate and have got the money the buy the latest devices.

The other month we had an in-service training on a updated piece of equipment.  The company representative offered to download problem-solving app for his health equipment to staff who had smart phones.  This is a brilliant concept if you have access to the right technology.  Just pull out your phone and you got access to instant information to solve problems with equipment.  What a great reference guide.

I think the Medical Staff have embraced mobile learning more than Nurses as they have to refer to guidelines alot more than our profession.