The Importance of Mobile-Assisted Learning: Developing a Motivational Perspective

Mobile-learning (M-Learning), also known as mobile assisted learning, has emerged over the years as a non-traditional format of teaching and learning. This pedagogical approach, facilitated with the advent of technological advances, may include the use of portable devices, such as MP3 players, tablets, e-books, cell phones, and smartphones. There is extensive research that has been undertaken, providing empirical yields for further research consideration. In this chapter, a special focus on mobile-learning, we explore the importance of this pedagogical approach from the perspective of motivation. We argue that research, to date, has yet to examine the situational placement of mobile-learning within the sociocultural context of motivation. In our quest to promote and develop the notion of mobile-learning, it is important that we take into account psychosocial issues that could explain its successes and failures. Is mobile-learning simply a transient fad that will fade away with the passing of time? Why would we engage in mobile-learning whenthere are so many defining limitations, such as small screen size, one-finger typing, etc.? Our conceptualization, developed in motivational contexts, seeks to identify and discuss four notable issues: (i) the importance of cognitive load theory, (ii) a constructivist paradigm for learning, (iii) the introduction of effective functioning as a personal well-being component, and (iv) the social world and its ongoing disparities, leading to imbalances between individuals. Our theoretical examination, balanced in its positioning, makes attempts to situate the concept of mobile-learning within the framework of motivation.