Access to Learning Through Mobiles

Abstract

The common myth that mobile learning cannot propel in a rural setting is null and void. The influx of modern ICTs like mobile technologies can revolutionize information access among the less privileged in many African communities. Using the Actor-Network Theory as a methodological tool, the chapter explores opportunities of increasing knowledge access through mobiles, by understanding the networks involved in farmer s mobile learning practice, with reference to Uganda. The chapter reveals that mobile technologies offer affordable individual and group learning opportunities to smallholder farmers. Learning is a socially constructed activity, where farmers with access to ICTs like mobile phones share knowledge among those with no access. Through a socio-technical discussion, technological initiatives ought to be pro-people where farmers needs are key considerations in the mLearning actor-network. For sustainable impacts, all actors need to work collaboratively, negotiate different realities, and appreciate the local challenges within which mobile technologies can support learning.