Modeling of a secure distribution framework for topical digital materials to enhance m-learning in secondary schools

Abstract

and lecturers in our local institutions have been writing educational materials which find wide acceptance by their students, some of these write-ups are topical learning materials. Topical learning materials are write-ups made by teachers and lecturers to cover certain topic in curriculum. These materials are low cost reading materials that on most cases do not make economic sense to publishers but of high value to students. Considering a large number of topical books and materials which are in circulation in our academic institutions it is imperative that a way is developed to nurture and encourage use of these materials in an economical way, in addition, students at remote areas ought to benefit from such refined materials. These learning materials are low value items that may not attract established publishers eye. The purpose of this research was to determine existence of e-learning frameworks in secondary schools that utilizes mobile platform. Smartphones are becoming popular and cheaper each day and it is finding wider usage and the rate of growth in sales is increasing at rate of 42.5% year over year as illustrated by IDC (2012). The findings of the study showed low penetration of mobile technologies as an aid in education. The study also showed a lot of willingness by academicians to adopt m-learning since it is more interactive, involves more contact, communication and collaboration with people (Vavoula, 2004). The result of the study is the design and implementation of m-learning distribution framework for topical digital materials used in secondary schools i.e. revision guides, test papers and other relevant materials, over mobile platform. The target audiences were mainly focus on lecturers, teachers and students. An elaborate secure digital distribution platform can really harness m-learning while allowing development of local content digital stores, and boosting sharing of educational materials easily by teachers and students in Kenya.