Articles
Vol. 1 No. 2 (2021): Technology enhanced learning in the MENA region
Perceptions of teachers on teaching and learning with mobile devices in higher education classrooms in Oman: A pilot study
Faculty of English, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman; and Department of Educational Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
Abstract
Mobile learning is a new educational paradigm. The use of mobile technology is popular on a global scale among students of higher learning. Mobile handheld devices have emerged as a learning tool for teachers and students in higher education classrooms. Nevertheless, the impact of mobile technology on learners has been an area of concern to teachers and administrators. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the perceptions of teachers on the use of mobile devices such as smart phones, iPads, notes and tablets in higher education classrooms. In this pilot study, in-depth one-to-one face-to-face interviews were conducted using semi-structured questionnaires. Limitations included the relatively small number of participants and restriction to only one of the many higher education institutions in Oman. The findings of this pilot study indicated that these technological tools can be potentially beneficial to the educational sector in the future and that more research should be conducted in the future in which a greater number of interviewees are sampled from more education institutions in Oman.
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