Review of Mobile Learning Trends 2010-2015: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Introduction With the advent of mobile technologies, new paradigm of teaching and learning with technology aid had been emerged, that is mobile learning (M-Learning). Mobile technologies purvey opportunities to hold new and interesting methods of teaching and learning, both beyond and inside the classroom. Apropos to the teaching-learning process, the integration of mobile devices into educational context has considerable benefits and profoundly potential which consistence with Valero et al. (2012) who claimed that the technological features of M-Learning are portability, immediacy, connectivity, ubiquity and adaptability. It enables collaboration among pupils, knowledge creation, information searching and improved interaction and communication between teacher and student. Moreover, it facilitates access to learning anytime and anywhere by enabling connectivity and the employ of multiple apps for educational purposes (Fundacion Telefonica, 2013). In short, M-Learning has been recognized as one of the most influential technologies for education (Johnson, Adams, & Cummins, 2012). Therefore, this paper intends to provide insights into the research trends and issues in the studies of M-Learning through content analysis of selected journals from January, 2010 to December, 2015, covering six major journals: (1) Computer & Education (CE Keengwe, 2014) that integrates several software and firmware technology in multimedia applications (Lavin-Mera et al., 2008) which facilitate learning through a variety of wireless mobile devices (Kukulska-Hulme, 2005; Stevens & Kitchenham, 2011) using wireless networks (WiFi) or broadband services (Caudill, 2007) without limit in terms of location or time. (Kukulska-Hulme, 2005; Hussin et al., 2012; Quinn, 2000). Furthermore, Keegan (2002) contemplates the possibility of M-Learning as a harbinger of the future of learning. M-Learning research The use of mobile devices for educational purposes, recognized as M-Learning has gained substantial attention from researchers in the technology-enhanced learning discipline. Recent research findings on using mobile devices in different learning environments have exemplified their ability to effectively enhance students' learning knowledge. …