Abstract:

Mobile e-learning (m-learning) is based on the use of mobile devices, such as computer tablets, smartphones, iPods, and in general handheld devices that have wireless connectivity, which allows, depending on the type of device, make calls, take pictures, notes, surf the Internet and social networks, send messages, record audios, among others.

In higher education institutions, m-learning is mainly used in distance education, but in the face-to-face mode, although due to its characteristics it could be promoted as a pedagogical tool, on the contrary, it is seen as a distractor in class, or to plagiarize information , among others. This paper presents the results of a case study in two Mexican institutions of higher education. Qualitative research tools (focus group) were used to describe and understand how these technologies are used in face-to-face education. This research edge was complemented with a quantitative instrument, by using an online questionnaire for both teachers and students. Among the main results we can mention that students having more reach to mobile devices than other generations, we have the idea that therefore, they would have a much greater use of educational applications than their teachers, however it is observed that although they use rather these devices, this does not mean that it is for the scope of m-learning; both teachers and students are unaware of specialized applications.

In this paper, we present the main results of a more extensive research that was carried out at the National Polytechnic Institute (Mexico).

Keywords:

m-learning, higher education, qualitative research, face to face education.