An investigation of mobile learning readiness in higher education based on the theory of planned behavior

Abstract

This study investigated the current state of college students' perceptions toward mobile learning in higher education. Mobile learning is a new form of learning utilizing the unique capabilities of mobile devices. Although mobile devices are ubiquitous on college campuses, student readiness for mobile learning has yet to be fully explored in the United States. The paper describes a conceptual model, based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), which explains how college students' beliefs influence their intention to adopt mobile devices in their coursework. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze self-report data from 177 college students. The findings showed that the TPB explained college students' acceptance of m-learning reasonably well. More specifically, attitude, subjective norm, and behavioral control positively influenced their intention to adopt mobile learning. The results provide valuable implications for ways to increase college students' acceptance of mobile learning. ► The theory of planned behavior was applied to explain m-learning acceptance. ► 87.2% of intention to adopt m-learning can be explained by all three factors. ► The significant factors were attitude, subjective norm and behavioral control. ► Perceived behavioral control was the stronger determinant of m-learning adoption.