Mobile Wireless Technology and Its Use in Lecture Room Environment: An Observation in Malaysian Institutes of Higher Learning

Abstract

Abstract-The use of Mobile Wireless Technologies (MWT) such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops are widespread. Despite their advantages such as portability and speed, their use in the field of education is under-researched in Malaysia. This study was conducted with the main aim of exploring the use of (or rather the lack of) MWT during lectures in higher learning institutions. Non-participatory observations were conducted in four lecture sessions. Results clearly showed that no MWT tools were used during the lectures, and there are almost no interactions between students and lecturers despite the huge number of more than 50 students in the class. A hypothetical framework was then developed based on these findings and supported by related theories. Future work will aim to test and validate this framework by administering interviews and surveys with students and academicians in the country.Index Terms-Higher learning institutions, interaction, mobile wireless technology, observation, students-academicians.

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