Innovation of Human Resources Development by M-Learning to Support Cross-border Tourism Event in Natuna

Abstract

Natuna has a great potential of natural resources, and its main potential is tourism. The development of cross-border tourism is in line with Jokowi-Jusuf Kalla's nine priorities. However, the obstacle in tourism is human resources who fluently speak foreign languages in marketing and communicating with foreign tourists, especially in the border area. Since Natuna is far and difficult to reach, no Natuna's university educates their human resources to speak a foreign language and because Natuna is also lack of foreign teacher. Therefore, it needs a breakthrough in foreign language learning through mobile learning applications. As smartphones are commonly used in society, the solution of foreign language learning through smartphone application became an innovation in education and training. The research method was Focus Group Discussion (FGD) between officials of Natuna's Regional Planning, Research, and Development Agency. The FGD was done by showing the design of interactive mobile applications for foreign language learning, especially English and Mandarin. The design of this application has been demonstrated in the FGD activities and has received a positive response. The conclusion of this research is Mobile Learning application is a foreign language learning solution to support tourism activities in Natuna.