Skip to main content

Advertisement

Log in

Assessing the Effectiveness of the Use of Mobile Technology in a Collegiate Course: A Case Study in M-learning

  • Original research
  • Published:
Technology, Knowledge and Learning Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

With the increase of mobilized and relatively inexpensive technologies, educators are challenged to consider new innovations for learning situations. This case study evaluates the use of mobile learning in a college course for instructional purposes. The study describes the specific manner in which mobile technology was utilized and then details ways student learning was impacted. The current body of literature regarding m-learning reveals a need for theoretical and pedagogical basis for m-learning within an educational context. Thus, the author developed an assessment tool to examine the use of mobile technology in a higher education course. This article reinforces m-learning should be based upon established course goals and objectives and not a particular type of electronic device. The researchers report the use of mobile technology use in this case study enhanced multiple types of learning, including, but not limited to, experiential, place-based, field-based, active, authentic, self-regulated and hands-on learning.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Subscribe and save

Springer+ Basic
$34.99 /Month
  • Get 10 units per month
  • Download Article/Chapter or eBook
  • 1 Unit = 1 Article or 1 Chapter
  • Cancel anytime
Subscribe now

Buy Now

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Fig. 1
Fig. 2

Similar content being viewed by others

Explore related subjects

Discover the latest articles, news and stories from top researchers in related subjects.

References

  • Administration on Children, Youth & Families (ACYF). (2016) Administration on Children, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Qualitative research methods in program evaluation: Considerations for federal staff. Report by the office of data, analysis, research, and evaluation. https://www.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/acyf/qualitative_research_methods_in_program_evaluation.pdf.

  • Al-Zahrani, H., & Laxman, K. (2016). A critical meta-analysis of mobile learning research in higher education. The Journal of Technology Studies,42(1), 74–89. https://doi.org/10.21061/jots.v41i2.a.1.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Baran, E. (2014). A review of research on mobile learning in teacher education. Educational Technology and Society,17(4), 17–32.

    Google Scholar 

  • Baxter, P., & Jack, S. (2008). Qualitative case study methodology: Study design and implementation for novice researchers. The Qualitative Report, 13(4), 544–559. Retrieved from http://nsuworks.nova.edu/tqr/vol13/iss4/2.

  • Beishuizen, J. (2008). Does a community of learners foster self-regulated learning? Technology, Pedagogy and Education,17(3), 183–193.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bernauer, J. A., & Tomei, L. A. (2015). Integrating pedagogy and technology: Improving teaching and learning in higher education. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield.

    Google Scholar 

  • Cennamo, K. S. (2012). AIME: Amount of invested mental effort. In N. M. Seel (Ed.), Encyclopedia of sciences of learning (pp. 194–195). New York, NY: Springer.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Chen, J., & Kinshuk, D. (2005). Mobile technology in educational services. Journal of Educational Multimedia and hypermedia, 14(1), 91–109. Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/205847796?accountid=13894.

  • Christensen, C. M., Johnson, C. W., & Horn, M. B. (2008). Disrupting class: How disruptive innovation will change the way the world learns. New York: McGraw-Hill.

    Google Scholar 

  • Chu, H. C. (2014). Potential negative effects of mobile learning on students’ learning achievement and cognitive load: A format assessment perspective. Educational Technology and Society,17(1), 332–344.

    Google Scholar 

  • Clougher, J., & Mahoney, K. (2012). The use of technology in cultivating a sense of global citizenship in students. Journal of Cross-Disciplinary Perspectives in Education, 5(1), 17–21. Retrieved from https://jcpe.wmwikis.net/file/view/Clougher+and+Mahoney_Technology+and+Global_Citizenship.pdf.

  • Cole, J. E. (2012). Teaching the way students learn: Practical applications for today's classrooms. Landham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield.

    Google Scholar 

  • Conole, G., Laat, M., Dillon, T., & Darby, J. (2008). ‘Disruptive technologies’, ‘pedagogical innovation’: What’s new? Findings from an in-depth study of students’ use and perception of technology. Computers and Education,50(2), 511–524.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Coursaris, C. K., & Kim, D. J. (2011). A meta-analytical review of empirical mobile usability studies. Journal of Usability Studies, 6(3), 117–171. Retrieved from http://uxpajournal.org/wp-content/uploads/pdf/JUS_Coursaris_May_2011.pdf.

  • Crompton, H. (2013a). A Historical overview of m-learning: Toward learner-centered education. In Z. L. Berge & L. Y. Muilenburg (Eds.), Handbook of mobile learning (pp. 3–14). Florence, KY: Routledge.

    Google Scholar 

  • Crompton, H. (2013b). Mobile learning: New approach, new theory. In Z. L. Berge & L. Y. Muilenburg (Eds.), Handbook of mobile learning (pp. 47–57). Florence, KY: Routledge.

    Google Scholar 

  • Crompton, H. (2014). A diachronic overview of technology contributing to mobile learning: A shift towards student-centred pedagogies. In M. Ally & A. Tsinakos (Eds.), Increasing access through mobile learning (pp. 7–15). Vancouver: Commonwealth of Learning and Athabasca University.

    Google Scholar 

  • Cutshall, S. (2009). Clicking across cultures. Educational Leadership,67(1), 40–44.

    Google Scholar 

  • Davison, C. B., & Lazaros, E. J. (2015). Adopting mobile technology in the higher education classroom. Journal of Technology Studies,41(1), 30–39. https://doi.org/10.21061/jots.v41i1.a.4.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Dold, C. J. (2016). Rethinking mobile learning in light of current theories and studies. The Journal of Academic Librarianship,42, 679–686.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Eckstein, H. (1975). Case study and theory in political science. In F. J. Greenstein & N. W. Polsby (Eds.), Handbook of political science (Vol. 7, pp. 79–137). Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley.

    Google Scholar 

  • Feng-Kuang, C., Gaoxia, Z., Qi, W., Zhenfeng, C., Su, C., & Shengquan, Y. (2016). Research and trends in mobile learning from 1976 to 2013: A content analysis of patents in selected databases. British Journal of Educational Technology,47(6), 1006–1019. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.12311.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Flyvbjerg, B. (2006). Five misunderstandings about case-study research. Qualitative Inquirey,12(2), 219–245. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077800405284363.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Fulcrum Mobile Solutions, LLC. (2000–2017). Retrieved from http://www.fulcrumapp.com/about/.

  • Gartner, Inc. (2015). Gartner says by 2020, a quarter billion connected vehicles will enable new in-vehicle services and automated driving capabilities. Retrieved from http://www.gartner.com/newsroom/id/2970017.

  • Glass, M. R. (2015). Enhancing field research methods with mobile survey technology. Journal of Geography in Higher Education,39(2), 288–298.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Harris Poll. (2015). Pearson student mobile device survey: College students 2015. Retrieved from http://www.pearsoned.com/wp-content/uploads/2015-Pearson-Student-Mobile-Device-Survey-College.pdf.

  • Hedberg, J. G. (2011). Towards a disruptive pedagogy: Changing classroom practice with technologies and digital content. Educational Media International,48(1), 1–16.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Huang, Y., & Chiu, P. (2015). The effectiveness of a meaningful learning-based evaluation model for context-aware mobile learning. British Journal of Educational Technology,46(2), 437–447. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.12147.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Humphrey, A. (2005). SWOT analysis for management consulting. SRI Alumni Newsletter. Menlo Park: SRI International.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hwang, G. J., & Wu, P. H. (2014). Applications, impacts and trends of mobile technology-enhanced learning: A review of 2008–2012 publications in selected SSCI journals. International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation,8(2), 83–95.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). (2008). ISTE standards for teachers. Retrieved from https://www.iste.org/docs/pdfs/20-14_ISTE_Standards-T_PDF.pdf.

  • Jones, C. (2009). Interdisciplinary approach: Advantages, disadvantages and the future benefits of interdisciplinary studies. ESSAI,7(26), 76–81.

    Google Scholar 

  • Kearney, M., & Maher, E. (2013). Mobile learning in math teacher education: Using iPads to support pre-service teachers’ professional development. Australian Educational Computing,27(3), 73–84.

    Google Scholar 

  • Kearney, M., Schuck, S., Burden, K., & Aubusson, P. (2012). Viewing mobile learning from a pedagogical perspective. Research in Learning Technology,20(1), 1–17.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Khaddage, F., Lanham, E., & Zhou, W. (2009). A mobile learning model for universities: Re-blending the current learning environment. International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies, Special Issue IMCL2009,3(1), 18–23. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijim.v3sl.949.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Khaddage, F., Müller, W., & Flintoff, K. (2016). Advancing mobile learning in formal and informal settings via mobile app technology: Where to from here, and how?. Journal of Educational Technology and Society, 19(3), 16–26. Retrieved from http://www.ifets.info/journals/19_3/3.pdf.

  • Kim, S. H., Mims, C., & Holmes, K. P. (2006). An introduction to current trends and benefits of mobile wireless technology use in higher education. AACE Journal,14(1), 77–100.

    Google Scholar 

  • Kitsantas, A., & Dabbagh, N. (2011). The role of Web 2.0 technologies in self-regulated learning. New Directions for Teaching and Learning,126, 99–106. https://doi.org/10.1002/tl.448.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kolb, D. (1984). Experiential learning: Experience as the source of learning and development. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.

    Google Scholar 

  • Lai, C., Yang, J., Chen, F., Ho, C., & Chan, T. (2007). Affordances of mobile technologies for experiential learning: The interplay of technology and pedagogical practices. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning,23(4), 326–337. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2729.2007.00237.x.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Levene, J., & Seabury, H. (2015). Evaluation of mobile learning: Current research and implication for instructional designers. TechTrends,59(6), 46–52.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Macleod, F., & Golby, M. (2003). Theories of learning and pedagogy: Issues for teacher development. Teacher Development,7(3), 345–362.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Mansureh, K. (2010). Factors affecting teachers’ adoption of educational computer games: A case study. British Journal of Education Technology,41(2), 256–270.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Miles, M. B., & Huberman, A. M. (1994). Qualitative data analysis: An expanded source book (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

    Google Scholar 

  • Miller, P. H. (2016). Theories of developmental psychology. New York, NY: Macmillian Learning.

    Google Scholar 

  • Montrieux, H., Vanderlinde, R., Schellens, T., & De Marez, L. (2015). Teaching and learning with mobile technology: A qualitative explorative study about the introduction of tablet devices in secondary education. PLoS ONE,10(12), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0144008.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Mueller, J. L., Wood, E., DePasquale, D., & Cruikshank, R. (2012). Examining mobile technology in higher education: Handheld devices in and out of the classroom. International Journal of Higher Education,1(2), 43–54. https://doi.org/10.5430/ijhe.v1n2p43.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Novak, G., Patterson, E. T., Gavrin, A. D., & Christian, W. (1999). Just-in-time teaching: Blending active learning with Web technology. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Oblinger, D. G., & Oblinger, J. L. (2005). Educating the net generation. An Educause e-book publication. http://www.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/pub7101.pdf. April 20, 2007.

  • Orchard, J., & Winch, C. (2015). What training do teachers need? Why theory is necessary in good teaching. Impact,2015(22), 1–43. https://doi.org/10.1111/2048-416X.2015.12002.x.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Patton, M. Q. (2002). Qualitative research and evaluation methods (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.

    Google Scholar 

  • Peng, H., Su, Y. J., Chou, C., & Tsai, C. C. (2009). Ubiquitous knowledge construction: Mobile learning re-defined and a conceptual framework. Innovations in Education and Teaching International,46(2), 171–183. https://doi.org/10.1111/2048-416X.2015.12002.x.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Pereira, O. E., & Rodrigues, J. C. (2013). Survey and analysis of current mobile learning applications and technologies. ACM Computing Surveys,46(2), 27:1–27:35. https://doi.org/10.1145/2543581.2543594.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Pimmer, C., Mateescu, M., & Gröhbiel, U. (2016). Mobile and ubiquitous learning in higher education settings: A systematic review of empirical studies. Computers in Human Behavior,63, 490–501. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2016.05.057.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Prensky, M. (2010). Teaching digital natives: Partnering for real learning. Thousand Oaks: Corwin.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ramey, K. (2012). 10 uses of technology in our daily life. Use of technology. Retrieved from https://www.useoftechnology.com/technology-today-tomorrow/.

  • Salomon, G. (1983). The differential investment of mental effort in learning from different sources. Educational Psychologist,18(1), 42–50.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sefton-Green, J. (2004). Literature review in informal learning with technology outside school. A NESTA Futurelab Series (report 7). Retrieved from https://telearn.archives-ouvertes.fr/hal-00190222.

  • Sharples, M., Taylor, J., & Vavoula, G. (2005). Towards a theory of mobile learning. Proceedings of mLearning,1(1), 1–9.

    Google Scholar 

  • Stake, R. E. (1995). The art of case study research. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

    Google Scholar 

  • Sung, Y., Chang, K., & Liu, T. (2015). The effects of integrating mobile devices with teaching and learning on students’ learning performance: A meta-analysis and research synthesis. Computers and Education,94, 252–275. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2015.11.008.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Traxler, J. (2010a). Distance education and mobile learning: Catching up, taking stock. Distance Education,31(2), 129–138.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Traxler, J. (2010b). Students and mobile devices. ALT-J Research and Learning Technology,18(2), 149–160. https://doi.org/10.1080/09687769.2010.492847.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). In M. Cole, V. John-Steiner, S. Scribner, & E. Souberman (Eds.), Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Wiggins, G., & McTighe, J. (2011). The understanding by design guide to creating high-quality units. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.

    Google Scholar 

  • Work Group for Community Health and Development. (2016). SWOT analysis. Community toolbox: Section 14. University of Kansas. Retrieved from http://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/assessment/assessing-community-needs-and-resources/swot-analysis/main.

  • Yin, R. K. (2003). Case study research: Design and methods (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

    Google Scholar 

  • Zhao, Y., & Frank, K. A. (2003). Factors affecting technology uses in schools: An ecological perspective. American Educational Research Journal,40(4), 807–840.

    Article  Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

Authors

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Joan Ann Swanson.

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Swanson, J.A. Assessing the Effectiveness of the Use of Mobile Technology in a Collegiate Course: A Case Study in M-learning. Tech Know Learn 25, 389–408 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10758-018-9372-1

Download citation

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10758-018-9372-1

Keywords