Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the way students use mobile phones and web-based learning environment, the development of professional skills during on-the-job learning, and the way the use of learning technologies and the development of professional skills change during the study. The theoretical framework of the study was built around a social cognitive theory of learning, and design research was used as a research method. The study was carried out in a vocational college of Oulu during 2005–2006. A research data consists of interviews of altogether twenty (20) students, data which originated from the use of learning technology, and notes of the researcher. The data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

The results showed that mobile phone’s call and message functions were used chiefly for maintaining interaction between the students during the periods of on-the-job learning. Mobile phone’s photograph and video functions were used for describing work, work environments and work-related events, and for describing objects and devices of the work. The students used web-based learning environment mainly for writing learning diaries. The students formed four (4) different user groups depending on how they used learning technology. The user groups formed were active users of communication functions, the active users of photograph and video functions, average users of technology, and passive users of technology.

The use of mobile phones and web-based learning environment supports students’ social interaction, memory, and information processing, factors which all enhance learning. Photographs the students took during their on-the-job learning periods captured information which they could utilize later if necessary. The students reported that during their on-the-job learning period they had learned basic knowledge and skills relevant to their work, gained routines and certainty, acquired situation-specific operational skills and wider, more profound knowledge. As to the development of professional skills, the learning of wider and more profound knowledge underwent the most marked changes. Those who were the active users of message functions reported having acquired the widest and most profound knowledge.

The use of teaching technology can be said to increase the sociability of on-the-job learning as well as the possibilities of tutoring. Demand for self-direction in learning, and autonomy of reflection also decline at the same time. In particular, the active and versatile use of teaching technology improves the conceptual understanding of a work, and the formation of situational-specific information. It also helps to form more comprehensive understanding of the work.