M-learning adoption in the Arab gulf countries: A systematic review of factors and challenges

Abstract

The simplicity and minimal cost of mobile phones make them more suitable for use among students and educators across the world. The integration of mobile technology in a university context has been found to provide a superior learning environment compared to the traditional classroom lecture. Yet, there are several challenges that may delay the adoption of m-learning and postpone the revolution it promised. Arab Gulf Countries (AGC), like other developing countries, are encountering challenges linked to the acceptance and adoption of m-learning. Therefore, it is vital to examine the factors driving the adoption of m-learning among instructors and students in these countries. This paper identified the influential factors affecting m-learning adoption among students in Arab Gulf universities. The challenges of adopting m-learning were also identified. A systematic literature review was conducted to explore the current evidence on the use of m-learning in AGC. The results showed different factors (mostly cultural and social) that contribute to m-learning acceptance/adoption in Arab Gulf universities. Findings from this study can aid educational policy makers with planning and implementing effective m-learning programs.