Handheld Learning 2009

Mobile learning has become an established area of research in the field of learning technologies, as evidenced by the increasing volume of projects, publications, and presentations that now cover a wide variety of mobile learning topics. The inaugural strand at Handheld Learning 2008 consisted of a selection of quality research papers from three different continents. Entering its second year in 2009, this year’s strand will be dedicated to the presentation of leading academic research in the field of mobile and ubiquitous technologies as applied to learning and teaching practice.

We are soliciting proposals which illustrate that when it comes to teaching and learning with technology, mobile matters. Submissions can be theoretical in nature, showcase original and innovative research (including research strategies), or focus on unique approaches and applications of mobile technologies for formal and informal teaching and learning in a range of settings. Suggested topics include (but are not limited to):

• Mobile learning theory and theory development
• Mobile learning pedagogy, curriculum, and assessment in formal and informal settings
• Research strategies for mobile learning
• Mobile games, simulations, and augmented reality
• Social and cultural aspects of mobile learning in formal and informal settings

Paper Format

Papers can be submitted as either short (2-4 pages) or long papers (8-10 pages). Work that is in progress can be submitted as a short paper. Papers should be submitted as Microsoft Word files.

The general format of the papers should be as follows:

• Title
• Author name(s) with affiliation
• Abstract
• Keywords
• Body

• Background: The area and theoretical framework of the work
• Focus: Whether your paper focuses on theory, research, or application
• Methods: The methods being employed (if appropriate)
• Contribution: An account of the work that is in progress or has been carried out
• Evaluation: An evaluation or critical appraisal of the work
• Reflection: A reflection on the successes and limitations of the work and its potential for further development
• References

Selection Criteria

The abstract review process will be double blind. Submissions will be selected based on the following criteria:

• Relevance to conference goals and objectives
• Grounding in the field of mobile learning
• Appropriateness of research methodology / practice / theoretical approach
• Validity of conclusions
• Contribution to the field of mobile learning
• Clarity of writing
• Overall quality of the paper

We are in need of some reviewers. If you are interested, please contact Mark van't Hooft at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it  

Important Deadlines for Conference Papers

June 19, 2009 - Abstract proposals due

June 26, 2009 - Notification of acceptance/Instructions for submitting papers

August 3, 2009 - Papers due

August 31, 2009 - Reviews back to authors

September 18, 2009 - Final papers due

October 5-7, 2009 - Handheld Learning 2009

Paper Publication

Presenters are strongly encouraged to submit extended versions of their papers and associated materials for publication following the conference (provided they have not been published elsewhere). A peer-reviewed publication will be compiled by the Research Center for Educational Technology at Kent State University. It will be in the form of either a special issue of RCETJ (www.rcetj.org) or a conference proceedings type of publication.

Tentative Timeline for Publication

November 20, 2009 - Manuscripts due for review

January 8, 2010 - Reviews back to authors

March 12, 2010 - Final manuscripts due

Mid May, 2010 - Expected publication date