“I’ve seen the future, it’s full of HTML”, writes Mikeal, an editor at Node.js Collection. Developers would definitely second this thought. If statistics are to be considered, then according to W3Techs.com, HTML5 is used by 87.5% of all the websites who use HTML.
HTML5 - 87.5%
HTML Transitional - 12.0%
HTML Strict - 0.7%
AMP - Less than 0.1%
Source:
W3Techs.com, 12 June 2018
Percentages of websites using various subcategories of HTML
Note: A website may use more than one subcategory of HTML
Even for laymen in eLearning HTML5 is not an alien term. Thanks to the change in dynamics and the fact that Flash is no longer an option, HTML5’s foothold in eLearning has grown stronger than ever. Its flexibility and customizability make it a preferred tool for learning development and even more so for mobile learning. Here are the key reasons.
Multi-device Delivery
HTML5’s compatibility on multiple devices made it popular right from the start. Currently with the ever-expanding mobile market HTML5 can run on different mobile operating systems, be it iOS, Android, Windows Phone, or Blackberry, of any size and on almost every web browser. While the cost for native apps maybe subjective to the customizations and features, the average cost is low. Web apps and hybrid apps too are options that work just fine.
Ease of Updating
Updating mobile learning has never been easier. With HTML5 web apps, the updates can be pushed through the web, or users can update based on the notifications. Controlling different versions becomes easier when the source remains same, and so does updation, modifications etc.
Constant Advancement
HTML5 is a developing technology. Each day developers across the globe add variations, improve functionalities, interactions etc. that can be then shared worldwide. Such evolution offers a great future. Club this with the advancement of mobile technology and just like that, we have cutting-edge learning at our fingertips. The journey so far is nothing but a projection of the potential of HTML5 and the widespread adoption says just that and more.
Global Outreach
Mobile Learning is truly mobile when it can be accessed across the globe on the device of choice and deliver a seamless experience. This would also mean overcoming the network connectivity issues in some parts of the globe. HTML5 offers offline downloading option too with mobile apps, making learning available anywhere, at any time.
Authoring Tools
Not really a benefit of HTML5, but the addition of authoring tools that deliver HTML5 output is a positive side too. With authoring tools developing and implementing mobile learning, the process is now faster and cost effective too. This also includes conversion of eLearning to mLearning, Flash to HTML5 conversions, mobile- responsive apps etc. all for mobile learning. It also helps in future proofing as mobile learning developed on authoring tools can be easily edited or modified.
The impact and influence of mobile learning has been increasing over the years and with HTML5 it stands to reach even greater heights. Evolution at various fronts technology, devices and learning ecosystem tend to keep pushing the boundaries of HTML5 and mobile learning. As Mikeal puts it, “Developer trends are driven by innovations in distribution. Languages, platforms, frameworks, all of them offer new and, hopefully, improved way to package the value you create and share it with others.”
Is your organization needs mobile learning? If so, is your mobile learning strategy HTML5 based?
