Investigation into the usage of mobile instant messaging in tertiary education
Monday, 21 January 2008
In the evolving world of the internet and technology, the increased use of newer, better and faster technologies are being used in the learning process. Educators are constantly looking at how they can improve the learning process for which technology is a contributing factor. The importance of education validates the increased usage of new technologies in the learning environment. In this paper a survey was distributed to tertiary students at Cape Peninsula University of Technology. Most of these students have access and been exposed to mobile technologies. The theory behind mobile learning is firstly addressed and examines the possible use of Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM) as a learning tool. The paper further describes a MIM tool Mxit, which allows a presence enabled messaging service to its users. The perceptions of Information Systems students are assessed on how MIM could be used in the learning environment. The results proved to be useful as it identified some of the possible uses suggested by students, but also the impact it could have on learner-educator-faculty communication.
