Do Mobile Learning Experiences Affect College Students’ Online Learning Readiness?

This study examines how mobile learning experiences influence college students’ readiness for online learning. The abrupt shift to online learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges, including reduced student engagement and interaction. Previous research has indicated that the degree of students’ learning readiness is crucial to derive the greatest advantage from virtual learning. Also, a variety of Information & Communication Technology (ICT) such as computers, laptops, and smartphones, could play a key role in facilitating effective online learning. However, little research examines the effects of mobile learning on online learning readiness (OLR). The study explores how mobile learning affects key components of online learning readiness: computer & internet self-efficacy, online communication self-efficacy, motivation for learning, learner control, and self-directed learning. Two research questions guide the study: 1) To what extent do mobile learning experiences affect college students’ online learning readiness? and 2) In what ways do mobile learning experiences influence college students’ online learning readiness? Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected from 73 survey participants and 11 interviewees. Quantitative analysis using a two-tailed t-test showed a positive impact of mobile learning on all factors of online learning readiness. Qualitative content analysis revealed key themes such as getting acquainted with learning technologies, access to related technologies/resources, awareness development, app features, motivation for searching information, learning environment, and limit on access.