DEVELOPING A MOBILE LEARNING DIARY THAT SUPPORTS LEARNER SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

This paper proposes the use of a mobile learning diary to support self-directed learning. Mobile learning has been investigated intensively the past fifteen years, and the mainstream of the mobile learning research provides knowledge of both learning processes and mobile technology design. When investigating self-directed learning uses learning technology, the support methods for how to learn metacognitive skills are a key issue. To date, the technology supporting self-directed learning is based on web-based applications for self-reports and subjective evaluations. However, previous studies have shown that the shift to supporting self-directed learning for mobile learners is evident. This paper presents a novel mobile technology-based approach for supporting self-directed learning. This mobile learning application contains self-evaluation tools grouped into five fields. The study was conducted on users of the mobile Learning Diary application delivered on the MXit platform during 2015-2016. Based on it, we suggest that to support self-directed learning using mobile technology, we need to ensure there is consistent assessment during the learning process, independent of the learning material. In addition, to enhance the learning of the intended skills, be able to reflect and support individual student learning processes, and gain metacognitive skills, the technology should support the presentations of individual student experiences during the learning process and commonly, but anonymously, the shared learning experiences of all others.