Mobile Learning for the Enhancement of Social Inclusiveness for Students in Open Distance e-Learning Institutions in Developing Countries

Abstract

In developing countries there is a growing need for higher education institutions (HEI) to facilitate the delivery of online learning experiences for learners due to factors that include resources, technological advancements, demographic changes, and a demand for accessibility and equity. Advances in mobile, social, and physical computing technologies have moved Human Computer Interaction (HCI) into virtually all areas of human activity. This has led researchers within the HCI communities to propose that the development and evaluation of digital technology should not only include usability, but the broader range of user experiences, where the feelings, motivations, and values of a user are given as much, if not more, attention than efficiency, effectiveness, and basic subjective satisfaction experiences which it offers. As the learner community is growing increasingly diverse due to factors such as socioeconomics, cultural, ethnic, experience level, and motivation, the use of social media as a platform for mobile learning applications have shown a capacity for inclusiveness in the lives of the learning community since they allow for the sharing of knowledge, dialogue and conversations addressing diversity and inclusion. It also shown advantages in terms of relevance, appropriateness, flexibility, and participation highlighting its educational potential. In terms of the quality management, it is found to be responsive to the needs of the learning community due to participatory design followed before and during the learning process.