AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION INTO THE EXTENT UNIVERSITY STUDENTS UTILISE MOBILE EDUCATIONAL APPLICATIONS FOR LEARNING

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to determine the extent and frequency with which university students use Mobile Educational Applications, the knowledge concerning their availability, challenges students experience in using them, and the effect of these apps on students’ learning processes and performance. The research adopted a quantitative method of investigation and was conducted at a university in South Africa. A total of 280 questionnaire responses were completed and returned compared to the envisaged sample size of 375, representing a 75% response rate. The results revealed that students have properly incorporated mobile devices and applications into their daily lives and use mobile apps for personal, social, and academic activities on varying scales. A vast majority of students have acknowledged the affirming utility of mobile educational apps in their studies. It was concluded that Mobile Educational Applications are tools that enhance students’ learning in a university environment.