Smartphone Usability Framework towards Self-directed Learning in University of Dar es Salaam

Abstract

Smartphone technology is among the most powerful technological breakthroughs to the level that most of the world’s adult population relies on it daily. Despite being initially considered as destruction to learners in their studies, the advent of Covid-19 made lecturers and learners reconsider their stance against smartphones as it was used to ensure learning goes on outside the confines of the university. This study focused on developing a smartphone usability features framework towards self-directed learning in University of Dar es Salaam. Quantitative research design and survey research method were adopted for this study. A sample size of 392 respondents was used and this was obtained through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. The study used a questionnaire as the data collection tool. Quality of the questionnaire was ensured through both validity and reliability. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive, exploratory and inferential data analysis. The findings on the smartphones platform usability feature depicted that the learners’ smartphones are compatible with different software, high degree of sensitivity and can be connected to the internet and other devices to facilitate self-directed learning. This study recommends smartphones to be integrated to the learning process to enhance selfdirected learning among learners.