The tablet - a learner's gadget : a case study on tablet effectiveness in enhancing open distance learning in Wawasan Open University, Malaysia
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This study adapted Koole's (2009) FRAME to explore the effectiveness of tablet as a device for enhancing engagement in ODL in Wawasan Open University, Malaysia. The Microsoft Surface RT tablet was selected for use in this study. 20 participants were involved in the tablet trialing for one semester. A survey questionnaire was used to collect data. Findings indicated that the tablet was effective for the individual learner, especially for reading course materials, participation in LMS, preparation for tutorials and researching on the internet. The tablet as a tool for learning enhanced the knowledge and understanding gained from self-study. The tablet usability anytime and anywhere also enhanced ODL. The tablet's portability and user-friendliness were strengths, and its wi-fi enabled technology was important for effective tablet use in an ODL environment. This study was limited by its small sample size. Future studies may include larger samples to be able to inform the University of the feasibility of a school-wide and possibly campus-wide adoption of tablet for learning and its benefits for distance learners.
Material type
Electronic
Funder
Institute of Research and Innovation, Wawasan Open University