The workaround today is that students download only limited amounts of content. Fortunately, most courseware is "chunked" into relatively small learning objects that make it practical to download only a minimal amount of content at a time. In the future, the devices will be more robust. We'll see more prevalent use of intelligent networks that can detect the kind of device the learner is using and how much memory they have and then transmit the appropriate amount of content.

The future is bright
The good news is that while the technologies are still very young, more and more companies are committing themselves to deliver on the promise of m-learning. Companies are finding ways to leverage new technologies while rapidly developing content and services that will dramatically improve the learning experience. The key to making this successful will be to stay focused on the learners' experience while not getting distracted by new technologies simply for the sake of technology. At the end of the day, what's most important is that learners come away with a greater experience.

Jeremy S. Kossen, vice president of the consulting firm eLearning Professionals (at http://www.elearningpros.com), is a noted expert on IT training and certification. In addition to being a regular columnist and contributor to several publications related to IT training, certification, and careers, Jeremy is a freelance consultant and industry speaker. He is based in San Francisco and can be reached via email at Jeremy.Kossen@UCLAlumni.net.