Ubiquitous learning (u-learning) has been defined as "a learning paradigm which takes place in a ubiquitous computing environment that enables learning the right thing at the right place and time in the right way" (Yahya et al. 2010). This essentially describes a learning environment that is always on, always available, universally accessible, and permanent. The advent ubiquitous learning has completely changed the traditional perceptions on learning as a formal, structured activity, and opened up new worlds of knowledge to anyone who might seek them.

Three aspects in particular: MOOCs, mobile learning and social media have played pivotal roles in this transformation. MOOCs have made learning accessible to everybody. By removing the physical constraints of a classroom and making learning accessible online has removed constraints not just on geography, but also on the demographics of the audience. Earlier, it would have been practically unfeasible, or at best socially awkward, for a middle-aged working professional to attend a learning program alongside teenagers; by removing the constraints of physical architecture, MOOCs have opened up learning to essentially anyone who might be interested. They have also opened up the possibility of career changes, and fluid career choices by making expert knowledge on almost any topic available to anybody at any time and stage in their career. Mobile learning adds a layer of independence from physical constraints. If moving from a physical classroom to an online one was liberating, extending this to “anywhere, anytime” availability further reinforces this freedom. Working professionals with a thirst for knowledge often find themselves unable to find the time to devote to learning. They also find a considerable amount of time that is spent fruitlessly (say on a daily commute or waiting at an airport) which they would be willing to devote to learning. The combination of MOOCs and mobile learning provides the perfect solution to this situation. Finally, social learning breaks down the “knowledge architecture” associated with traditional learning by blurring the lines between teacher and learner. By enabling peer-to-peer discussion and knowledge sharing, social learning helps strengthen learning based on the principle that “teaching is the best form of learning.”

Yahya S, Ahmad E, Jalil KA. 2010. The definition and characteristics of ubiquitous learning: A discussion. International Journal of Education and Development using ICT: 6(1)