Towards a mobile centric framework for inclusive sustainable interactions

Abstract

Developing countries in general, and South Africa in particular has shown phenomenal growth in the mobile cellular technology sector. Providing mobile cellular access to information and services has ushered a new era of challenges and opportunities for Higher Education Institutions. The aim of this article is to investigate students’ needs and expectations regarding mobile cellular technology access to services, content and participation mechanisms in an Open and Distance Learning (ODL) university context. The research methodology is qualitative, with document analysis and a survey as data capturing strategies. The contribution of this article is to refine existing categories of students’ needs regarding mobile phone access and make recommendations about providing mobile cellular technology access to services and content in an ODL university context.