Feasibility of mobile based learning in higher education institutions in India

Most of the developed countries universities have understood the advantages and usage of mobile based learning (m-learning) and have put mobile based learning into practice not only in distance education, but also in regular class room learning process. Developing countries like India, having a huge students presence and a large number of universities, institutions, though gradually shifting towards Information Communication and Technology (ICT) enabled education system, practically has no mobile based learning. Recently Government of India has understood the need and as a part of the agenda has started thinking and encouraging m-learning as tool, an addendum to ICT enabled education system. Keeping in focus on the Government of India initiatives and the need of m-learning in higher education, the paper makes feasibility analysis by making market, technical and economical analysis of m-learning in universities, institutions in India running higher education like engineering and scientific research. The feasibility analysis is added with a survey on 301 students from an Engineering institute, for their acceptance, technical and usability issues of mobile based learning. The survey results shows a positive indication, but, with many issues, to be taken care of.