Developing a mobile instant messaging system for problem-based learning activity

Abstract

In traditional problem-based learning (PBL) activity, tutors play an important role in the learning activity. They have to build the teaching materials, learning objectives, and learning objects based on the knowledge map. And then, they input learning objectives and guide students to start learning process by inspired questions. Therefore, their duty in this kind of activity is to facilitate learning by supporting, guiding, and monitoring the learning process. In this manner, many researches built the online learning system to facilitate the PBL process for both tutors and students. Generally, those systems can be divided into two types: web-based system and mobile-based system. However, these two types use stateless communication protocol which is possible to leak the instant monitor information for tutor to grasp the learning process situation of students. Without the real-time monitor, tutors cannot provide proper learning supports according to students' learning situation and responses in PBL activity. This paper presents a mobile instant messaging system taking into account learning logs which helps tutors monitor the process of PBL. With the help of this system, tutors can adjust the learning guides during the learning activity instantly.