Students’ Perceptions Regarding the Tablet Personal Computer (Pc) as a Mobile Learning Device at a Graduate Institute in Tshwane: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

The unfolding Fourth Industrial Revolution (FIR) has necessitated immense technological innovations in the educational sphere. To date, countable educational institutions in South Africa have introduced the Tablet Personal Computer (PC) to their students for academic purposes. However, perceptions regarding the Tablet PC as a mobile learning device has not been delved into in South Africa. This study has done such an exploration. The study explores the perceptions that graduate students in Tshwane hold of the Tablet Personal Computer (PC) as a mobile learning and management device[MC1] . Data was collected from full-time undergraduate students using a web based online survey with a semi-structured questionnaire. A population sample of 277 respondents was selected using non-probability method in the form of convenience sampling. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics methods. The results of the study indicated that the majority of the surveyed students had a positive perception regarding the Tablet PC. Based on the research findings, limitations, recommendations and future research opportunities were suggested. [MC1]Sentence added

Students Views on the Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Tablets: A South African Case Study

“…Moreover, there is a paucity in the areas of research that needs to be investigated such as how the use of tablets enhance or hinder student learning [23] and whether tablets can make any influence in education [24]. Additionally, little studies have been done in the higher education institutions of South Africa pertaining to the students' views on the use of tablets as a learning device [25]. Therefore, a study on the views of students on the benefits and drawbacks of using tablets in a South African university is a pertinent problem that needs to be investigated.…”

“…Cant, Wiid and Enock [25] investigated the views of 277 undergraduate students to understand their use of tablets for the purpose of mobile learning. A quantitative method was used and a semistructured questionnaire was designed for this approach.…”