Middleware for the Development of Context-Aware Applications inside m-Learning: Connecting e-Learning to the Mobile World

Abstract

This paper addresses the issue of the creation of context-aware applications inside the Mobile-Learning approach. It tries to clarify aspects like the most suitable environments of application; how new features of mobile devices, such as GPS (Global Positioning System) receivers, motion sensors, etc., must be taken into account. It also addresses why most of the m-Learning applications do not make use of the existing services and knowledge of the Learning Management Systems, which are in fact the real pillars of the e-learning methodology. Finally, the architectural design of a context-aware framework created by the authors is described. The main contribution of this framework is to provide contextual information from different sources, including different kind of geographical sensors (allowing roaming among them) and external services. As result of the work, the middleware has been developed and it is being used in the development of several m-learning projects.