Mobile and Distributed Learning

Faculty

Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science

Version

Version 1 of 09.02.2026.

Module identifier

11M0592

Module level

Master

Language of instruction

German

ECTS credit points and grading

5.0

Module frequency

irregular

Duration

1 semester

 

 

Brief description

The master's module ‘Mobile and Distributed Learning Systems’ covers the technical, design and didactic fundamentals of digitally supported learning processes. The previously valid separate phases of knowledge acquisition and application of what has been learned can no longer be maintained due to the fast pace of today's technologies. Today's working life is characterised by lifelong learning processes that are carried out through a constant alternation between learning and application. In order to meet this need, a large number of knowledge transfer processes will take place electronically in the future. On the one hand, the effective use of electronically supported learning processes requires appropriate software components in the form of learning systems. The availability of generative AI systems based on large language models (LLM) offers further opportunities to support self-directed learning processes. On the other hand, however, a high degree of media didactic qualification is also required to develop and use such systems.

Teaching and learning outcomes

  • Technical, design and didactic fundamentals of digitally supported learning processes.
  • User experience and interaction: Designing user interfaces and user experiences for mobile learning applications.
    Interaction design and accessibility in mobile and distributed learning environments.

 

  • Case studies and project work: Analysis of existing mobile and distributed learning systems.
    Group projects to develop your own mobile learning applications or platforms.
  • Research trends and future prospects: Investigation of current research topics in the fields of mobile and distributed learning.
    Discussion of future trends and innovations in educational technology.

Overall workload

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

Teaching and learning methods
Lecturer based learning
Workload hoursType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
30Learning in groups / Coaching of groupsPresence or online-
15Individual coachingPresence or online-
Lecturer independent learning
Workload hoursType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
105Work in small groups-
Graded examination
  • Project Report, written
Remark on the assessment methods

Case studies and project work: Analysis of existing mobile and distributed learning systems.
Group projects to develop your own mobile learning applications or platforms.

Exam duration and scope

Project report: approx. 15 pages plus oral presentation of approx. 10 minutes

Recommended prior knowledge

none

Knowledge Broadening

Students gain in-depth knowledge of the technical fundamentals of mobile and distributed learning systems, including software architecture, platform development and the integration of AI systems, in particular large language models.

Knowledge deepening

Students critically examine forms of learning and develop a component of an e-learning system as part of the course. Depending on the task, this can be a technical or a content-related didactic component. The online-based implementation greatly enhances the media literacy of the participants.

Knowledge Understanding

Students understand the didactic theories and models underlying mobile and distributed learning systems. They recognise the importance of user experience, interaction design and accessibility for the effectiveness of learning applications.

Application and Transfer

Students apply their knowledge in practice by designing and developing mobile learning applications. They conduct analytical case studies and work on projects to design their own solutions based on the principles of good scientific practice.

Academic Innovation

Students identify and examine current research trends and innovations in the field of educational technology. They develop ideas for future research projects and innovative applications that push the boundaries of technology in education.

Communication and Cooperation

Students present their research findings and projects professionally. They work effectively in teams to achieve common goals and share their insights in discussions and presentations with peers and non-experts.

Academic Self-Conception / Professionalism

Students reflect on the ethical and societal aspects of developing and implementing digital learning systems. They develop an awareness of the responsibility associated with designing educational technologies, particularly with regard to data protection and inclusion.

Literature

  • R.E: Mayer: Multimedia Learning, 2nd Ed., Cambridge University Press, 2009
  • R.C. Clark, R.E. Mayer: E-Learning and the Science of Instruction, 3rd Ed., Wiley, 2011
  • W. Horton: E-Learning by Design, 2nd Ed., Pfeiffer, 2012
  • L. Issing, P. Klimsa: Information und Lernen mit Multimedia, 2. Aufl. Beltz Psychologie Verlags Union, 1997 J. Hasebrook: Multimedia-Psychologie, Spektrum-Verlag, 1995
  • S.-P. Ballstaedt: Wissensvermittlung, Beltz Psychologie Verlags Union, 1997
  • Aktuelle Tagungsbände der GMW-Jahrestagung, GI-Delfi-Tagung

Applicability in study programs

  • Computer Science
    • Computer Science M.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Mechatronic Systems Engineering
    • Mechatronic Systems Engineering M.Sc. (01.09.2025)

    Person responsible for the module
    • Morisse, Karsten
    Teachers
    • Morisse, Karsten
    • Ramm, Michaela