Mobile scaffolding: an experiment in using SMS text messaging to support first year university students

Abstract

Research at Kingston University has identified that first year students desire support in managing their time and activities in both physical and virtual space. SMS text messaging was used as an experimental method of providing a form of "mobile scaffolding" at a fundamental level to support these needs, and guide students towards independent self-management; i.e. creating a personal mobile support context for learning and doing. The initial results of this experiment are presented, and appear to support the case for such provision, but suggest the social context warrants consideration within the proposed framework. A discussion of issues identified for consideration is presented to inform further development and implementation in this area.