Title: An implementation of an mLearning scenario using short text messaging: an analysis and evaluation

Authors: Krassie Petrova

Addresses: School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, 2-14 Wakefield Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Abstract: This paper describes the results of a research study conducted in conjunction with an experiment in using a short text messaging service (SMS) scenario for test revision. The learning environment was developed in a specific class context and was supported by a commercial mobile data service. This study aimed to identify the factors students perceived as drivers of the mLearning scenario and inhibitors to the success of the mLearning scenario, and to investigate the implementation of a mobile learning requirements framework in evaluating the experiment outcomes. An activity theory (AT) framework was developed to represent the dynamic relationships between participants and technology within the context of the experiment. The results of the qualitative data analysis show that mobility support, information density and information relevance are the main success factors, while service cost is likely to be the major detractor, and allow to draw recommendations for increasing the value of the mLearning service.

Keywords: activity theory; SMS; short text messaging; m-learning; mobile learning; test revision scenario; success factors; service value; mobility support; information relevance; information density; service cost; drivers; inhibitors; New Zealand.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMLO.2010.029955

International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation, 2010 Vol.4 No.1, pp.83 - 97

Published online: 03 Dec 2009 *

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