Title: A psycho-pedagogical approach to m-learning in a developing-world context

Authors: F. Fotouhi-Ghazvini, P.S. Excell, A. Moeini, D.J. Robison

Addresses: Department of Electronic Imaging and Media Communications, School of Informatics, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK; Department of Software Engineering, University of Qom, Qom, 37165, Iran. ' Department of Electronic Imaging and Media Communications, School of Informatics, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK. ' University of Tehran Informatics Center (UTIC), No. 286, Keshavarz Blvd., Tehran, 1417633861, Iran. ' Department of Electronic Imaging and Media Communications, School of Informatics, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK

Abstract: A study of the potential of mobile learning (m-learning) to contribute to the development in a typical rapidly developing country (Iran) is presented. Established educational theories are applied in order to classify potential modalities for m-learning: sample surveys of the reactions of typical user groups were taken and analysed. It is concluded that m-learning will be the best to be executed within the informal framework of learning, not only supplementing the school curriculum, but also extending powerfully into lifelong learning, especially for isolated rural/agricultural communities. It is further concluded that the standard mobile phone is, and will continue for some time to be, the dominant platform.

Keywords: computer literacy; developing countries; digital enfranchisement; e-agriculture; educational games; mobile learning; mobile phones; psycho-pedagogy; Wireless Application Protocol; WAP; female education; Iran; women; psychology; pedagogy; m-learning; mobile communications; lifelong learning; isolated communities; rural communities; agricultural communities.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMLO.2008.018718

International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation, 2008 Vol.2 No.1, pp.62 - 80

Published online: 15 Jun 2008 *

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