Issue link: https://takingitglobal.uberflip.com/i/368884
Open-Source Mobile Apps, World Vision Canada The message that was hammered home by the World Vision Canada representative was "when it comes to non-profits and mobile technology, there is no reason to reinvent the wheel". There are a lot of great resources out there, and non-profits need to work together to produce innovative solutions to improve mobile learning and engagement. Presently, World Vision Canada uses a variety of open-source mobile apps to execute and evaluate their programs on-the-ground. When it comes to monitoring, evaluation and surveying, mobile technology has helped to improve the frequency and accuracy of data and to radically reduce the number of errors in reporting. A participant also highlighted how mobile technology can expand the learning space and ensure that learning is taking place at home as well as in the classroom. 2. Place-Based Discovery Mobile technology allows users to learn anywhere and everywhere. It is a powerful and effective tool for children, youth and adults alike to learn by doing, and it compels experiential and project-based learning. Mobile apps that fall into the place-based discovery category allow mobile users to explore specific areas and discover their history, culture and landmarks in a fun, memorable and interactive way. Case Study Explore150, TakingITGlobal The Explore150 app was designed for interactive learning and allows mobile users to discover Canada's expansive cultural history and diversity. The purpose of the application is to increase exposure, promotion, and ultimately recognition of various sites across Canada as having natural, cultural and historical significance. Explore150 also makes use of social media connectivity so that people can exchange tips, information, and fun activities with fellow users. The Explore150 app was recently integrated into the YMCA Summer Work Student Exchange Program as a tool to execute the program's 'Canadian Culture and History' component. The app proved to be a fun and effective way for students to learn this content, and will hopefully be scaled up and integrated into all of the YMCA's Summer Work Student Exchange Programs across Canada in future years.