Examining Student Participation and Perception of Mobile Instant Messaging: An Exploratory Study

This paper aims to explore the pedagogical value of mobile instant messaging in higher education and probe its impact on teacher-student relationship. We studied a case of using WeChat, one of the most popular MIM applications, in a Hong Kong postgraduate class. We analyzed the chat log and interviewed the instructor and students. The results show that students welcomed the implementation of MIM app in classroom, and agreed that it provided access to mobile learning and possibilities to know the instructor. To further improve the educational value, students preferred: (a) setting clearer goals, (b) creating an open and interactive channel and (c) separating social and academic interactions.

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