Mobile learning environment with short messaging service: Application to a campus environment in a developing country

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss how to integrate secure, open‐source and mobile‐based system with the Moodle learning management system (MLMS) then describe the implementation of a campus‐wide mobile learning environment with short messaging system (SMS) and how this platform is incorporated with the student's learning environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper discusses how existing mobile‐based systems are currently being used for academic activities and describes current research within the same area. Then, the paper gives the detailed design of secure, open‐source and Moodle integrated mobile learning environment that facilitates sending short messages via an SMS gateway.

Findings

Statistical analysis of results during a campus‐wide implementation of the system revealed students’ preference in studying with a group while using mobile technologies for academic activities.

Originality/value

With the advent of mobile technology, integrating an open‐source secure mobile learning environment, coupled with a short message service, into a learning management system (LMS) has been a challenging task in mobile learning platforms during the past few years. Hence, this research project presents a significant importance for both students and teachers by proposing a campus‐wide mobile learning environment with open source software providing unlimited usage.

Citation

Salinda Premadasa, H.K. and Gayan N. Meegama, R. (2013), "Mobile learning environment with short messaging service: Application to a campus environment in a developing country", Campus-Wide Information Systems, Vol. 30 No. 2, pp. 106-123. https://doi.org/10.1108/10650741311306291