A Web-Based Reference Architecture for Mobile Learning: Its Quality Aspects and Evaluation

This paper discusses the development process and evaluation of a reference software architecture within the field of mobile learning. The architecture implements the workflow of preparation - activity - analysis & reflection of (data collection) activities supported by mobile applications. A number of challenges, like portability, flexibility, or expandability are important to address in mobile learning. To overcome the mentioned challenges in this field, we are proposing a web-based architecture that is supposed to serve as a foundation for the development of software solutions in the field of mobile learning. We discuss scenario descriptions needed for the evaluation and present three implementations in this field that serve as candidate architectures. With the support of those candidates, the reference architecture is proposed. Important system quality attributes are identified and then applied for an evaluation of the architecture using the SAAM method. We conclude by discussing that the proposed architecture does not only fit the field of mobile learning but can also be adapted to a general solution regarding the workflow of: preparation - activity - analysis & reflection of mobile (data collection) applications.