Mobile-learning (m-learning) is a technological innovation which has created inventive opportunities for teaching and learning. It is considered as a crucial component for higher education. Due to the advancement in mobile technology, its evolving nature and widespread adoption, continuous research is required in the field. Although research studies are conducted in the area of mobile learning, only few of them aim to review the research initiatives and activities. This paper provides a systematic review of mobile learning based on the procedures and guidelines of Okoi and Schabram. It collates 42 studies published between 2013 and 2018 to observe the use of m-learning and its effectiveness in enhancing student engagement. It also summarizes the benefits and challenges students face when using m-learning and identifies gaps in the current research to suggest further investigation. Findings show that the use of m-learning has been growing and it is effective in enhancing student engagement. The major benefits revealed include flexibility, collaboration and interaction, immediate feedback and motivation. In addition to that, some major challenges were also identified. These include, having no appropriate theory for mobile age, no strong motivation to guide the learners, privacy issues, risk of distraction, frequent changes of device/ models / features, and assessment methods. It was also found that a significant number of studies were based on no theoretical framework. Most of the studies were conducted for a short duration. There was a gender bias in the research respondents. Moreover, only very few studies were aimed to design and develop guidelines/models frameworks.
Volume 11 | 01-Special Issue
Pages: 1408-1415