Accessory or Necessary? The Needs of Mobile Learning in Unleashing Student's Creativity in Art Classrooms

The robust advancement of mobile learning has demanded its integration into education system. As a subject that places it emphasis on creativity, innovation and critical thinking, Visual Art Education (VAE) has urged its students to utilize the full potential of mobile learning. However, previous studies have reported differently. Undoubtedly, there are many factors influencing their decision. Hence, the study aims to determine the current uptake and explore the determining factors influencing the VAE student's decision to integrate mobile learning into their learning process. The study employed a quantitative research design where data were collected through survey questionnaire from 214 VAE students in Gombak District, Selangor. Descriptive and path analysis of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were carried out in analyzing data of the study. The research finding indicates that students were at a moderate level of mobile learning integration, largely depending on accessibility, quantity and quality of mobile tools, applications and peripherals provided for them. Further, support from school administrators and peers were found as influential factor toward student's successful integration of mobile learning in art classrooms. It is envisaged that the findings from this study have major implications for the provision of support, which will ensure teachers' successful mobile learning integration. Further, this study will serve as a guide and reference for teachers, school administrators, teachers training institution and the government in establishing a standard of successful integration of mobile learning, especially in the subject area of VAE.