Mobile Learning to Support Self-Regulated Learning: A Theoretical Review

Abstract

This paper discusses the possibilities of using and designing mobile technology for learning purposes coupled with learning analytics to support self-regulated learning (SRL). Being able to self-regulate one's own learning is important for academic success but is also challenging. Research has shown that without instructional support, students are often not able to effectively regulate their own learning. This is problematic for effective self-study and stands in the way of academic success. Providing instructional support for both metacognitive processes such as planning, monitoring, and reflection and cognitive processes such as learning strategies can help students to learn in a self-regulated way more optimally. Mobile learning provides opportunities to provide ‘just in time' support for both cognitive and metacognitive processes. To provide insights into how mobile learning can support SRL, this theoretical review discusses selected studies that have used mobile learning to support SRL in different domains.