Mobile learning: A case study on restructuring information on vocational schools of higher education

In this study, applicability of mobile learning in vocational schools of higher education was investigated. For this purpose, a mobile learning environment was designed by the researcher. Conducted in a vocational school of higher education in a Central Anatolian town, the study was carried out within "Introduction to Algorithm and Programming" course, which was initially observed to be difficult for the learners to succeed. Data were collected during the fall semester of 2015-2016 academic year. This qualitative case study started with a group of 36 students, and it continued with a group of 6 participants selected through the purposeful sampling so that the research could be done in depth. In addition, the participants were observed by the investigator using an investigator's diary for 14 weeks, which constituted the database of case studies. The investigator's diary and individual interviews were evaluated through qualitative data analysis. Finally, the results of the questionnaire and the use of the mobile learning environment were also presented. As a result, the developed mobile learning environment contributed positively to the development of positive attitudes towards the course among the learners, enhancing the motivation for the lesson, and facilitating learner-learner and learner-teacher communication. However, adverse effects were observed such as active participation decreasing over time, the developed environment becoming a study and chat environment for learning, deviation from learning purpose and encountering technical problems. In a similar vein, the learners stated that the mobile learning environment was useful and motivating, but it did not affect course success. Keywords: mobile learning, vocational schools of higher education, case study