Complementing formal learning with mobile technology outside the classroom

In developing countries, classroom lessons are theoretical and concepts are sometimes not entirely understood within the allocated lesson time for students. There is therefore a gap between classroom lessons and students often have to supplement what is taught in class outside the classroom. A study was conducted in Zimbabwe, which uses the same textbooks countrywide, to identify the prevalent issues of traditional learning challenges that can potentially be solved by using the mobile phone. Results show that high school students have mobile phones and can adopt mobile learning practices. Results also suggest a need for mechanisms that support student-centered learning in the construction of knowledge for better understanding of difficult concepts outside the classroom.