Colombo University, SLT Mobitel team up in “M-LEARNING” initiative

Sri Lanka Telecom Mobitel has joined the University of Colombo to introduce to Sri Lanka an innovative concept that breaks through traditional boundaries, utilizing advanced technology.

“M-learning” goes a step further changing the way in which education is delivered and received, and is a promising path way to obtaining higher education that will undoubtedly deliver value to the country, SLT Mobitel said.

With the advancement of mobile technology, and especially Sri Lanka Telecom Mobitel moving into the 3G network spectrum, it was recognized that these traditional learning shortcomings can be addressed through the concept of “M- learning” (Mobile learning). “M- learning” is the teaching and learning process through the use of mobile and hand held devices such as mobile phones, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA), laptops and tablet PC’s, it said.

The course curriculum is designed and compiled by the University of Colombo. Initially the course offered through “M-learning” will be the “Executive Diploma in Marketing” (EDM).

This programme is currently offered by the Faculty of Graduate Studies of the University of Colombo, and will be a stepping stone for students with only AL qualifications, providing them with an entry point to move further into pursuing the Post Graduate Diploma in Management and thereafter the Masters in Business Studies (MBS).

Professor Lakshman Dissanayake, Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, said, “This activity will open up a new gateway to higher learning in this country by providing a unique opportunity to get our local universities connected globally. Thus the employment opportunities of our graduates will be enhanced, and they will also be well-equipped with subject knowledge as well as new technology in the 21st century.”

The Executive Diploma in Marketing (EDM) will provide students with an intermediate level of knowledge to be applied in the marketing field. The curriculum is designed to mirror the challenges in the marketing industry. It adopts problem based learning as the primary teaching methodology to promote student directed learning that will better equip them with specialist marketing knowledge and techniques in marketing management.