Abstract:

This study aims to investigate how young people in Malaysia use their smart devices for learning and to uncover the influences and influencers of youths’ formal and informal learning. Hermeneutic phenomenology is the theoretical framework that underpins this study and it is employed to acquire access to a phenomenon that is frequently subconscious and to interpret the participants’ lived experiences of using smart devices. Hermeneutic phenomenological research methods consist of the use of semi-structured interviews with 15 youths ranging from 16-21 years old over a period of 9 months. The findings reveal that participants’ learning embedded in everyday mobile practices, is shaped by the multifaceted relationship of friends’, parents’, teachers’ and media influences. Further than the fragmentary learning of everyday mobile practices, there is indication of deep, prolonged and purposive learning activities. It is therefore important to understand more about the different types of learning occurring with the use of smart devices, and its influences, particularly on the relevance of teachers in today’s hyperconnected world. Further research comprising quantitative and qualitative studies is recommended to better theorize the phenomenon so as to produce more well-informed polices and strategies to enhance formal and informal learning.

Keywords:

Smart devices, informal learning, hermeneutic phenomenology, influences, relevance of teachers.