We’re hearing a lot of chatter these days that the next big electronic learning trend will be mLearning (learning via handheld mobile devices). To some, this trend may still seem like a distant dream, possible only once handhelds become far more sophisticated.

To others, we’ve got the tools to start right now.

Case in point: check out educational consultant and former elementary school teacher Tony Vincent’s inspirational site learninginhand.com, which has a whole slew of ideas and resources for how to use current handheld technology to get kids into learning.

In particular, check out his page on how much can be done with just a simple iPod.

Think about it: If you were a kid, what would have been more fun, listening to your teacher drone on about Thomas Edison’s accomplishments, or to actually hear Edison tell you about them himself, right in your ear? Or how about sparking up current events discussions by collectively watching newsworthy YouTube clips on video iPods?

And Vincent shows there are many other educational uses for the iPod beyond video and audio, including using it as a reference tool, a quiz resource, and more. And he not only makes suggestions for WHAT to do, but also points to simple tools and tutorials for HOW to do it.

While the page is designed for elementary educators, seems to me these ideas can work for learners at any age, if content is adjusted appropriately.

I’m interested to hear what other good ideas people have come across for early adoption of m-learning. Got a great resource or idea? Tried something that had really successful results? Do tell.

Ever sit through a PowerPoint presentation where the speaker put every single word of his or her presentation on the slide — and then proceeded to read it word for word? There should be a law against that, and the presenter should be punished by having to sit through their own presentation for the next 24 hours.

Comic Don McMillan agrees, and he has some hilarious observations about other all-too-common PowerPoint abuses.

PowerPoint’s greatest advantage is also its most notorious curse: It puts presenters at ease, but it can also put audiences to sleep.

Just remember, whether you’re in front of a large crowd or small group, it’s impossible to disappear from the audience’s eye; you still need to have strong presentation skills. The best PowerPoint presentations enhance your presence, they don’t replace you as the presenter.