Exploring Factors Influencing Mobile Learning in Higher Education - A Systematic Review

Abstract

To facilitate compelling learning experiences for the students, mobile learning (m-learning) has evolved as a powerful component of education - learning and teaching. Unlike electronic learning (e-learning), m-learning uses small and portable devices and laptops and desktops, primarily small and portable technological tools. M-learning helps impart knowledge focusing on the learner's need, accessibility, infrastructure, and interaction, irrespective of the place and time. With rapid advancements in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and mobile devices, myriad applications (Apps) and innovative m-learning and e-learning services are being developed and launched at an unprecedented pace. For students representing different demographics (age, education level, class, socioeconomic status, location) and enrolled in higher education, m-learning has quickly become the modern style and preferred format of learning and accessing knowledge to integrate different modes of learning. Motivated by this novel m-learning learning movement, this study synthesizes existing research on m-learning technologies and technological platforms that cater to synchronous and asynchronous learning/teaching modalities for students and teachers at higher education institutions.