Context Aware Electronic Updates for Virtual Learning Environments

This paper proposes a mobile application for retrieving electronic updates from virtual learning environments using dimensions of context. Using automatically generated RSS feeds from a Moodle based virtual learning environment, information can easily be delivered in a concise format through wireless networks directly to the student's device. The paper reports on a pilot study carried out to provide quantitative feedback of students' experiences with electronic updates based on time and location. The design and implementation of the application proposes activity as a third dimension of context as a parameter defined by the user to control the dissemination of information. The development is part of an overall investigation into the role of different dimensions of context when disseminating information from a virtual learning environment to mobile devices.