Mobile e-learning: The choice between Responsive/Mobile Websites and Mobile Applications for Virtual Learning Environments for increasing access to Higher Education in Malawi

摘要

This study seeks to look into deployment of open source virtual learning environments, such as Moodle, for developing country situations using Malawi as a case study. The study makes specific focus on mobile devices with a specific focus on mobile phones. Mobile access to learning environments is an innovative way to use mobile networks to increase access to education. This is also in line with the Malawi Governments Policy to increase access to higher education through Open Distance Learning. The study will look into the most common medium for access to information by students at the University of Malawi's Polytechnic, the mobile smart phone. Finally the study analyzes the effect of mobile internet services on access to web applications. The study has provided recommendations on the best practices for mobile-learning usage with virtual learning environments. The study recommendations are relevant for public policy makers that are working towards increasing access to higher education.