Exploring the use of MXit : a cellphone social network to facilitate learning in distance education

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to investigate the pedagogical suitability of using cellphones to enhance learning through social interaction in distance education. Social interaction was used as a conceptual framework to explore the potential for using “MXit” – a cellphone instant messaging system – to support and enhance learning for distance education students. In exploring how MXit could be used to facilitate social interaction, a pilot study was conducted with University of South Africa’s (UNISA) students to determine how communities of learning are established. The findings suggest that MXit has the potential to be used to support collaborative learning amongst distance learners. Using MXit is even more appropriate in this context because in most black South African cultures, collaborative learning is a strong factor determining values and social interaction.