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1 – 10 of 467
Article
Publication date: 6 July 2015

Nhlanhla Wilton B. Mlitwa and David Wafula Wanyonyi

This paper aims to present a research outcome to an investigation towards the innovative use of electronic-learning (e-Learning) software solutions to strengthen the interactive…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a research outcome to an investigation towards the innovative use of electronic-learning (e-Learning) software solutions to strengthen the interactive component of mobile learning (m-Learning) in university contexts. This work was motivated by observations of interactive limitations in existing m-Learning solutions in well-intentioned software development and e-Learning efforts. The aim of the project, thus, was to interrogate hindrances to the potency of m-Learning interventions. The idea was to strengthen the interactive component, to improve the compatibility of the desktop e-Learning process – with mobile appliances such as mobile phones and, finally, to explore cost minimizing avenues of downloading learning materials over mobile phones.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology of the project was twofold: that is, both literature-based and experimental. Literature background offered insight on existing efforts towards interactive m-Learning solutions. Against this background, the project was then designed to explore ways to provide presentations and interactive chats for effective m-Learning over mobile phones. The idea was to reduce the file size of presentations slides for effective display on mobile devices. Finally, the aim was also to minimize airtime costs when transmitting presentation slides and when conducting interactive chats on mobile phones. An experiment research method was, thus, used. In this method, a problem and question were articulated first. Then, a practical technological solution was conceptualized, developed, pre-tested, modified and re-tested until it complied with sought specifications, Finally, the solution was implemented, to confirm its viability and response to a research problem and, ultimately, was reported in the findings.

Findings

Slides were developed with light colour resolutions to open effortlessly on tiny mobile screens. The best quality was between 128 and 201.188 (out of 255) pixels (more visible mobile phone screens), using Open Source Software. Clear slides also had a font greater than size 32. The average data per presentation were 9,872.66 bytes, and, when seven learners were chatting, it was 3,686.63 bytes (0.03 megabytes). For airtime costs, the Vodacom rate of R0.46 per megabyte was used. This translates to 0.8 × 0.46 = R0.0368 cost per slide. The m-Chisimba platform therefore, seems to be cost-effective, quality expedient and most appropriate for interactive m-Learning.

Research limitations/implications

Existing m-Learning has been inadequate, failing to align adequately the desktop e-Learning solutions with mobile phone platforms. Desktop presentation slides, for example, have been incompatible with mobile phones’ operations and screen sizes. Mostly, content could consume a lot more airtime, owing to large sizes of desktop originated material that was incompatible with mobile platforms. A solution that emerged from original experiments, leading to the enhanced interactive m-Learning solution, the m-Chisimba platform, is, therefore, presented in this paper. The thinking is that mobile applications are convenient enablers which extend access to information. Nevertheless, mobile applications (including m-Learning solutions) cannot be seen as panaceas to solve all learning concerns as literacy and affordability remain challenges in many under-developed social environments. As a newly developed innovation, the m-Chisimba platform offers an improved m-Learning solution for learning activities over mobile gadgets such as mobile phones.

Practical implications

The research work offers new innovative solutions in a number of practical ways. It improves the interactivity component of the m-Learning process, to empower educators and learners to effectively engage learning over m-Learning devices.

Social implications

The innovation makes it easier to for learning to take place effortlessly, over mobile platforms. Implications are that more people will be able to access learning processes on the move, meaning that obstacles to access learning opportunities are minimised.

Originality/value

Existing m-Learning has been inadequate, failing to align adequately the desktop e-Learning solutions with mobile phone platforms. Desktop presentation slides, for example, have been incompatible with mobile phones’ operations and screen sizes. Mostly, content could consume a lot more airtime, owing to large sizes of desktop-originated material that was incompatible with mobile-platforms. A solution that emerged from original experiments, leading to the enhanced interactive m-Learning solution, the m-Chisimba platform, is, therefore, presented in this paper. The thinking is that mobile applications are convenient enablers which extend access to information. Nevertheless, mobile applications (including m-Learning solutions) cannot be seen as panaceas to solve all learning concerns as literacy and affordability remain challenges in many under-developed social environments. As a newly developed innovation, the m-Chisimba platform offers an improved m-Learning solution for learning activities over mobile gadgets such as mobile phones.

Article
Publication date: 31 January 2022

Maram Saeed Alzaidi and Yasser Moustafa Shehawy

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in social isolation; nevertheless, universities will proceed throughout this trying period with the assistance of technology. As such, this…

Abstract

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in social isolation; nevertheless, universities will proceed throughout this trying period with the assistance of technology. As such, this paper seeks to develop a conceptual framework to investigate the continued intentions of students to use mobile learning during COVID-19 under different cultural contexts expanding upon the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and the Expectation-Confirmation Model (ECM) under different cultural contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

The suggested model is empirically tested with 1,206 students from different universities in three societies (i.e. Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the UK) using SEM/PLS.

Findings

Performance expectancy, satisfaction, social influence, facilitating conditions and instructors' competencies positively influence students' continued intentions to use mobile learning. In addition, the findings of the current research indicate that student's isolation negatively impact the continuous usage behavior. Furthermore, the findings indicated that a “one-size-fits-all” approach is insufficient in capturing the heterogeneity of students' intentions to use mobile learning across countries.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study that has been conducted to understand the main determinants of students' continued intentions to use mobile learning under different cultural contexts.

Article
Publication date: 1 November 2022

Özlem Efiloğlu Kurt

In parallel with technological developments, mobile devices have become an important part of our daily lives. Nowadays, people, particularly generation Z, actively engage with the…

2342

Abstract

Purpose

In parallel with technological developments, mobile devices have become an important part of our daily lives. Nowadays, people, particularly generation Z, actively engage with the Internet and mobile technologies, including smartphones. The new technologies have also made electronic learning (e-learning) and mobile learning (m-learning) tempting for learners in higher education. Despite the growing use of m-learning, particularly in developed countries, its utilization in higher education is still at its early stage and far from its potential. This study investigates the university students' acceptance of using m-learning with smartphones in a developing country context.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative data collected through conducting questionnaires with 405 higher education students in Turkey were analyzed with structural equation modelling.

Findings

The findings show that the acceptance of using m-learning is affected by several factors, including perceived enjoyment, complexity and facilitating conditions. The findings are particularly relevant in the current context, where the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed many higher education institutions to adapt m-learning systems to enhance student learning experiences.

Originality/value

This study's findings offer fresh and important insights that can be used by m-learning developers and educators for designing m-learning systems and using m-learning applications in enhancing students' experience and performance with m-learning.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-10-2021-0516.

Details

Online Information Review, vol. 47 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1468-4527

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 May 2016

Richa Misra and Shalini Srivastava

The purpose of this paper is to undermine the role of cellular technology, government and the funding agency to deliver reliable and cost-effective health services for the people…

439

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to undermine the role of cellular technology, government and the funding agency to deliver reliable and cost-effective health services for the people living in the bottom of pyramid and remote areas of the country where quality healthcare facilities are not available. The people living in rural Bihar (India) have a limited education and are reluctant to visit the female healthcare centers. The Ananya Bihar project has employed volunteers from the same community and aid from the foundation and government to improve the maternity and neo-natal healthcare initially in eight districts of the state.

Design/methodology/approach

The study reviewed various m-health projects and m-education projects with a detailing of the Anaya Bihar Project initiated by Melinda Gates foundation and Government of Bihar, India. The study uncovers technical, operational aspects and methodology followed by Ananya. It has detailed the best practices followed by the project. The study also features the capability of mobile as a tool to reach the masses in most cost effective way.

Findings

The use of mobile application with the association from the social worker has been tremendously successful in maternity and child healthcare in the state of Bihar, India. The application includes educating the user’s about the healthcare, training for midwives, alerts related to vaccination and thereby reducing the mortality rate and improving the maternal healthcare for the people from the bottom of pyramid. The project has created awareness among the rural families and has improved the maternity healthcare in the eight districts of Bihar, India. They were also planning to expand the project in other states of India.

Research limitations/implications

The study is exploratory in nature and has not involved primary data collection and statistical analysis. The study has compiled the data and information available.

Practical implications

The present study may be used as a reference to the organization working on mobile healthcare projects to understand the best practices of m-health project. The study also explains the role of various stakeholders (as Ananya-Bihar was a collaborative effort of Social trust, Technical experts, Network service provider, Community, State Government and the People) in the success of the project.

Social implications

The study explains the role of technology for the benefit of people. In the present case mobile healthcare initiated by the foundation has been very effective in dealing with maternity healthcare in rural Bihar, where people cannot afford expensive healthcare facility. The only silver lining is increasing tele-density at the most affordable rate in the globe, with funding from NGOs and full support from government. Such types of m-healthcare projects will support the government in delivering quality healthcare to the people who are living below poverty line and deprived of basic healthcare facilities.

Originality/value

The study details the methodology and technical details of Ananya Mobile health care platform.

Details

On the Horizon, vol. 24 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1074-8121

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 August 2023

Murtaza Ashiq, Shafiq Ur Rehman, Ammara Yousaf and Muhammad Safdar

The use of mobile technologies and learning devices has been increasing in every field of life, and library and information sciences are no exception. This study aims to explore…

Abstract

Purpose

The use of mobile technologies and learning devices has been increasing in every field of life, and library and information sciences are no exception. This study aims to explore the perceptions of library and information science (LIS) students regarding mobile learning (m-learning) along with their primary purposes, social media applications, advantages, disadvantages, barriers, impact and overall satisfaction with using these devices.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey method was used, and data was collected from the students of 12 library schools in Pakistan for a total sample of 250 students.

Findings

Their main purposes of usage, their needs, advantages, disadvantages, barriers, impacts and the level of overall satisfaction were also identified. The inferential statistics (t-test and ANOVA) also identified the difference of opinion on the basis of gender, programs, types and number of m-learning devices. Overall, the findings highlight the need for academic libraries to give mobile access (launching mobile applications) to better use library services. To ensure this, libraries must keep an eye on new advances in mobile technology, researchers’ needs and related electronic library services and observe how these services are being used.

Practical implications

Theoretical and practical implications have been highlighted to understand the perceptions of LIS students about m-learning devices.

Originality/value

The mobile library service providers and management need to improve their services by offering services that fit the diverse needs of their users and should know how to attract modern library users.

Details

Digital Library Perspectives, vol. 39 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2059-5816

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 October 2018

Nattaporn Thongsri, Liang Shen, Yukun Bao and Ibraheem Mubarak Alharbi

The purpose of this study was to investigate factors that influence the intention to use mobile learning (m-learning) by learners in developing countries such as Thailand. This…

1493

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate factors that influence the intention to use mobile learning (m-learning) by learners in developing countries such as Thailand. This study integrated two theories; namely, the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT), which focuses on technology, and uses and gratifications theory (UGT), which involves studying learners’ motivation.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying a quantitative research method, this study conducted a survey of 359 undergraduates. The partial least squares methods and a statistical analysis technique based on the structural equation modelling (SEM), were used to analyse the data.

Findings

The results revealed that the performance expectancy, cognitive need, affective need and social need had significant effect on intention to use m-learning. Furthermore, this study found a significant effect of the cognitive need on the performance expectancy and social need on effort expectancy.

Practical implications

This research model has provided guidelines for the effective development of educational applications for use on mobile devices. The findings can be applied as guidelines for public organizations to develop educational strategies to further encourage the development of online learning.

Originality/value

This research closed a gap of understanding from previous studies by integrating UTAUT and UGT. The method derived from the theoretically integrated model could be applied to study the intentions for the implementation the mobile learning application from the context of developing countries such as Thailand.

Article
Publication date: 23 August 2023

Salah A.M. Ahmed, Mohammed A.E. Suliman, Abdo Hasan AL-Qadri and Wenlan Zhang

This study aims to improve the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model by examining technological anxiety and other influential factors on international…

129

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to improve the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model by examining technological anxiety and other influential factors on international students' adoption of mobile learning (m-learning) during COVID-19 emergency remote teaching (ERT).

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilized the modified UTAUT framework to test hypotheses through a cross-sectional survey method. Participants were university students studying Chinese as a foreign language who were selected using a convenience sampling approach. An online questionnaire was then administered. The data collected from the surveys were analyzed using the partial least squares method with SmartPLS 4 software.

Findings

The study examined 16 hypotheses and found support for six of them. The results confirmed that performance expectancy (PE) is a significant predictor of behavioral intention (BI), and anxiety influences both PE and effort expectancy. The negative effect of social influence on anxiety was found to be significant, while facilitating conditions had a negative impact on learners' self-efficacy. The model fit indices indicated a good overall fit for the model.

Research limitations/implications

This study presents a valuable contribution to the literature on m-learning in emergency education by incorporating technological anxiety into the enhanced UTAUT model. Examining the relationships between the key factors of the model provides a better understanding of learners' intentions and can inspire researchers to establish new theoretical foundations to evaluate the roles of these factors in diverse educational settings.

Practical implications

The study found that performance expectations are linked to learners' intentions, and anxiety indirectly affects BIs to use mobile learning platforms. Thus, these platforms should be designed to meet learners' expectations with minimum effort and eliminate anxiety triggers to facilitate ease of use. Language curriculum developers and policymakers should incorporate mobile learning applications to support diverse language skills, address students' needs and encourage their use through professional development opportunities for instructors.

Social implications

Social factors have been found to significantly influence anxiety levels among learners. Therefore, it is crucial for teachers and family members to play an essential role in mitigating anxiety's adverse effects. Discussing related issues can enhance the quality of mobile learning and stimulate social initiative by providers, ultimately improving the learning experience for all learners, regardless of their location or circumstances. This can also contribute to the growth and development of society.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the originality of m-learning development by proposing an enhanced UTAUT model that considers anxiety and emphasizes the critical role of foreign learners' BIs. It provides fundamental guidelines for designing and evaluating m-learning in ERT contexts.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 January 2022

Mingyue Fan, Juliet Wanza Ndavi, Sikandar Ali Qalati, Lin Huang and Zhengjia Pu

Studying mobile learning – the use of electronic devices (i.e. cellphone and tablets) to engage in learning across multiple contexts via connection to peers, media, experts and…

525

Abstract

Purpose

Studying mobile learning – the use of electronic devices (i.e. cellphone and tablets) to engage in learning across multiple contexts via connection to peers, media, experts and the larger world is a relatively new academic enterprise. This study analyzes the influencing factors of mobile learning (M-learning) motivation based on the time continuum model of motivation (TCMM).

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses structural equation modeling (SEM) and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to verify relationships between mobile learning motivation, attitude, need, stimulation, emotion, ability and reinforcement. Justification for the use of both methods lies in the complementarity relationships that existed between the variables and research methodologies. The sample contains 560 mobile learners' feedback.

Findings

Results show that attitude, need, emotion, ability and reinforcement are important factors to enhance mobile learning motivation, while stimulation is not.

Practical implications

This work highlights the importance of training for app designers on how to design an M-learning App with high learning motivation by paying prior attention to learning content, teaching team and online learning communities.

Originality/value

This study proposes three precise solutions (scholars, managers and practitioners) to improve learning motivation based on the categorization of mobile learners.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-04-2021-0226.

Details

Online Information Review, vol. 46 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1468-4527

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 18 April 2023

Raj Kishor Kampa

The study aims to validate a mobile learning readiness scale through the technology readiness and acceptance model (TRAM), thereby assessing students' readiness to adopt m-learning

2923

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to validate a mobile learning readiness scale through the technology readiness and acceptance model (TRAM), thereby assessing students' readiness to adopt m-learning in teaching and learning, including its acceptance.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire was administered to open and distance learning (ODL) students in Odisha, India, to assess their readiness and acceptance of m-learning. 665 valid responses were collected, and collected data was analysed using statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS) and SmartPLS.

Findings

The findings of the study reveal that optimism contributes positively to perceived ease of use (PEOU) and perceived usefulness (PU) of m-learning (β = 7.921, p < 0.001; β = 2.123, p < 0.05), whereas innovativeness positively contributes to PEOU of m-learning (β = 2.227, p < 0.05), but not PU of m-learning. ODL student's optimism improves his/her PEOU and PU of m-learning, but innovativeness improves only his/her PEOU. Further, the impact of innovativeness is higher than that of optimism in the TRAM and innovativeness is the strong predictor to adopt m-learning. It also shows that the PU of m-learning positively influences behavioural intention to use m-learning (β = 4.757, p < 0.001). Integrating technology readiness (TR) with technology acceptance model (TAM) to predict students' acceptance of m-learning is very useful.

Practical implications

The paper will help decision-makers to adopt and use m-learning in higher educational institutions.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to explore the readiness and acceptance of m-learning in higher education in India.

Details

Asian Association of Open Universities Journal, vol. 18 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1858-3431

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 November 2015

Bernard M. Garrett, Cathryn Jackson and Brian Wilson

This paper aims to report on a pilot research project designed to explore if new mobile augmented reality (AR) technologies have the potential to enhance the learning of clinical…

1862

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to report on a pilot research project designed to explore if new mobile augmented reality (AR) technologies have the potential to enhance the learning of clinical skills in the lab.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory action-research-based pilot study was undertaken to explore an initial proof-of-concept design in using AR resources to supplement clinical skills lab teaching. A convenience non-probability sample of 72 undergraduate nursing students tested these resources during lab sessions, and participated in post-exposure surveys and focus groups to help evaluate them. This pilot design aimed to test logistics and gather information prior to further developmental work.

Findings

Key similarities emerged between the survey and focus group findings regarding the technical issues and support for student learning. Students clearly expressed a comfort with the technology, and both students and faculty identified the ability to access resources to support self-directed learning and review of skills as positive attributes of using AR. However, technical issues such as slow response times and incompatible smartphones interfered with resource access and frustrated some students, potentially having a negative impact on their learning. Students gave positive feedback regarding the value of mobile access and having AR resources available “at the bedside” where they were practicing.

Research limitations/implications

This empirical pilot study was limited to a small number of participants in a single location. However, a deeper understanding of the potential value of AR in clinical health professional education, and best practices in implementing these new technologies, was achieved.

Practical implications

This study provides a valuable practical contribution, as the approach for AR resource development described can be readily replicated by teachers with limited technical skills. The practical limitations of AR technologies discovered by use in real-world settings will provide developers and educators with valuable information as they begin to explore the use of AR in the lab and beyond.

Social implications

AR represents a rapidly developing field, with increasing social impact. This study provides some initial ideas that will help inform future uptake of AR in wider educational settings, beyond health professional education.

Originality/value

This study represents original work in the field, and specifically, an original implementation of AR in an educational context.

Details

Interactive Technology and Smart Education, vol. 12 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-5659

Keywords

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