Abstract

The literature points to the rise of mobile learning (m-learning) adoption in some higher education institutions in Malaysia. However, the designs of m-learning system in each institution are diverse and may not be carefully designed up to learners’ expectation. Needs on interactivity is one aspect to be considered. This study examined the extent to which interactivity is viewed as a key element in designing an SMS-based m-learning system from the perspectives of distance learners. A purposive sample of 61 responses from distance learners from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) was analyzed. The results attested that in general, interactivity was viewed as important in their learning process. Specifically, interaction between students and lecturer was mostly preferred by the students, not only for learning communication, but also as a support to the SMS (Short Message Service)-based learning system. Findings in this study are of interest to distance educators and course designers interested in exploring the interactive elements of SMS-based learning applications.

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