Socioeconomic strata, mobile technology, and education: a comparative analysis |
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| Authors: | Paul Kim Teresita Hagashi Laura Carillo Irina Gonzales Tamas Makany Bommi Lee and Alberto Gàrate |
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| Institution: | (1) Stanford University, 520 Galvez Mall #3084, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;(2) CETYS Universidad, Calz. CETYS s/n, 22159 Col. Rivera Mexicali, BC, Mexico |
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| Abstract: | Mobile devices are highly portable, easily distributable, substantially affordable, and have the potential to be pedagogically
complementary resources in education. This study, incorporating mixed method analyses, discusses the implications of a mobile
learning technology-based learning model in two public primary schools near the Mexico-USA border in the state of Baja California,
Mexico. One school was located in an urban slum and the other in a rural village community. Empirical and ethnographic data
were collected through a series of achievement tests, observations, surveys, and interviews involving 160 s grade school children
recruited by convenience sampling. The general technology infrastructure, distinctive features of mobile learning to supplement
literacy development, profound contextual phenomena arising from the two uniquely underserved communities, and social factors
possibly influencing the educational experiences are discussed. The findings suggest that students in the rural village, seriously
lacking educational resources and technology exposure, may have benefited substantially more from mobile technologies than
urban school students possibly due to their relatively higher socio-economic status and higher parental involvement and interest
in education. In contrast, there was no evidence of interaction with parental education levels, the experience of teachers
or school principals, or the teacher’s perception or preparation of the technology. Overall, the mobile learning technology
adoption was rapid, seamless, and actively driven by the students rather than the teacher. The challenges of the phenomenal
migratory nature of most families in this unique geographical region are also discussed to benefit future studies. |
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