A study of mobile learning among adult neo-literates in courses by the Iranian Literacy Movement Organization

Purpose This study aims to explore the impact of mobile learning on educating Iranian adult neo-literates within courses held by Iranian Literacy Movement Organization. Design/methodology/approach A concurrent mixed-methods design was used to investigate to what extent the adult neo-literates in Shiraz, Iran, were ready to use mobile phones in their courses. The qualitative section involved merging and summarizing basic themes into organizing themes. The themes were then integrated to create a single global theme. Findings The results showed that the participants were ready to embrace m-learning. Instrumentality was the most influential factor contributing to neo-literates’ readiness for m-learning. Findings also showed that from learners’ standpoint, mobile phones presented some unique features, enabling them to integrate elements from both distance and face-to-face courses. They also believed that mobile phones or other information and communications technology gadgets provided better opportunities for learning, although they fall short of fully replacing human instructors. Research limitations/implications The limitations of the study were the participants’ limited familiarity with the research procedure and the impossibility of holding joint gatherings at specific locations. Originality/value This applied study helps the literacy movement to take strong steps toward creating an educational environment that guarantees learning anytime and anywhere for its learners.