ERIC Number: EJ1412691
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2354-2160
EISSN: N/A
Learners and Caregivers Barriers and Attitudes to SMS-Based Mobile Learning in Kenya
K. Jordan; K. Damani; C. Myers; P. Khagame; A. Mumbi; L. Njuguna
African Educational Research Journal, v11 n4 p665-679 2023
The use of mobile phones has been identified as a potential way to bring the benefits of educational technology to a wider audience, including in low-connectivity settings. This is a topic that has received renewed interest recently as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and school closures. While a number of recent studies have demonstrated good potential for mobile phones and SMS to be used to support learning, there are also questions about how equitable this medium is in practice. We conducted a telephone survey with learners (n = 122) and their caregivers (n = 124) who use M-Shule, an SMS-based educational platform in Kenya, in order to understand their attitudes towards mobile learning, and the benefits and constraints. In particular, we consider whether there are differences in responses according to gender and/or location, to shed light on whether use is equitable. We find that girls and boys face similar barriers to use, and the technology is perceived to be equally beneficial. We identify some areas for potential further support for all learners through mobile learning.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Telecommunications, Handheld Devices, Educational Technology, COVID-19, Pandemics, Student Attitudes, Gender Differences, Geographic Location, Barriers, Parent Attitudes, Equal Education, Program Effectiveness
Net Journals. 25 Akintola Road, Sapele, Delta State, 331107, Nigeria. e-mail: service@netjournals.org; Web site: https://www.netjournals.org/aer_index.html
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Kenya
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A