In Defence of Mobile Technologies Exploring the Socio-Technological Dimensions of M-Learning

Introduction

There is an increasing and unprecedented adoption of mobile technologies in developed and developing countries alike (Keegan 2003). Mobile technologies are revolutionising education, transforming the traditional ways of learning and teaching into ‘anytime’ and particularly, ‘anyplace’ education. Empirical studies have reported the advantages of using mobile technologies in learning environments, including supporting group work on projects, engaging learners in learning-related activities in diverse physical locations, and enhancing communication and collaborative learning in the classroom (Liu et al., 2003). This paper seeks to address this question by assessing the current state of knowledge concerning the potential of mobile phones as a delivery mechanism for learning services for the poor in developing countries. While the more technical aspects of wireless access and a detailed technical analysis of the latest mobile technologies are not included here, it is acknowledged that the technical capabilities of mobile devices are a crucial factor in developing and sustaining feasible m-learning projects. A number of handheld computers offer telephone functionality as well as e-mail and Internet access, alongside conventional personal digital assistant (PDA) features. At the same time, a number of mobile telephones offer some computing or data functionality, making the distinction between phone- and data-centric handheld devices ever more difficult to draw (Becta 2004). Therefore, it is assumed that both handheld computing devices (for example, a PDA) and mobile phones are in fact handheld devices, and will be referred to as such in this paper. Limited research has been conducted on the potential of mobile technology for educational use in developing countries. Wood (2003) states that using mobile technologies in education may contribute to combating the digital divide in developing countries, as this technology is generally cheaper than desktop computers, particularly mobile phones and PDAs. In order to develop a model that could be used for m-learning adoption, it is essential to gain a greater understanding of the considerations associated with the use of mobile technologies. Therefore, after providing a brief overview of the history of mobile technologies this paper will delve into the theoretical frameworks regarding the use of these technologies in education in the less developed world.