Offline mobile learning: Open platforms for ICT4D

Abstract

In developing countries, mobile devices can play an important role in delivering learning. But, poor information infrastructure and higher costs of mobile devices and connectivity restrict possibilities of providing successful mobile learning services. In the field of Information Communication for Development (ICT4D), this research aims to highlight the possible role of previously unexplored open hardware platforms for delivering affordable and sustainable mobile learning offline. This paper points out the technical challenge of using open hardware and need for a broader study to investigate its potential role in developing countries as supporting mobile learners in their own socio-cultural contexts is a significant challenge. © 2010 IEEE.