What Makes Learners Use Portable Educational Applications on the Smartphones in Their Pockets?

• In Event: Roundtable Session 41
  In Roundtable Session: Influences in Using Digital Media: Narratives, Attitudes, and Educational Apps

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to illuminate factors which influence learners’ acceptance of educational applications on a portable computing technology, the smartphone. This study attempted to address three research questions: to illuminate factors influencing learners’ acceptance of educational applications on smartphones, to establish a theory-based model, and to verify the model. To find the answers to each question, the researchers used grounded theory methodology and structural equation modeling (SEM). The data was gathered through interviews with high school students in South Korea. As a result, we found core categories which were applicable to the extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Interestingly, we found self-directed learning readiness was a factor in the acceptance of educational applications on smartphones.

Authors

• Sahoon H. Kim, Indiana University

• Jungju J. Cha, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Kyongwan W. Kang, University of Wisconsin - Madison