Mobile learning support to distance learners: using WhatsApp Messenger

This paper examines the Open University Malaysia’s (OUM) forays into using WhatsApp Messenger as a tool for supporting learning. The pilot project was implemented on the new group of about 3000 first-semester learners. The mobile learning messages were in the form of images, audios and videos, in addition to the text format. A preliminary survey was conducted using the Google Drive survey instrument, and it was communicated to the learners via WhatsApp. This paper outlines the OUM’s efforts and processes in implementing WhatsApp as a tool for mobile learning support and distance learners’ experience and usage pattern for the mobile learning messages. (Abstract by authors