Integrating Mobile Technology into the Learning Process: An Experiment Based on the Botswana Context

Abstract

Botswana has continued to invest a lot in ICTs with the realization that they are critical for socio-economic development. This has been coupled with provision of computers and internet connectivity in a number of secondary schools and other education settings. The ICT platform has become an important approach in promoting meaningful teaching and learning in schools. This article argues for the use of mobile technology in teaching as a novel learning environment that could promote active learning and afford students an opportunity to broaden their understanding of the environment around them. The paper illustrates utilization of mobile technology in Botswana through an experiment on the production of schematic diagram for Botswana National Botanical Garden. It reflects on lessons learnt which could be of benefit for the school learning process when utilizing mobile technology. The paper advocates for integrated use of various mobile technologies in teaching which could assist student learning.