Date of Award

2017

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Education

Abstract

Mobile device use in Educational learning contexts tends to draw more interest among researchers, educators and students, when mobile learning methods can be applied to enhance learning opportunities, addressing real-world skill acquisition and practical application within existing coursework. This study explored the use of Skype as a tool for students to practice a prepared speech in a communications course to determine perceptions of students in using mobile learning to improve public speaking skills. This quantitative study examined undergraduate students behavioral intention to use mobile learning in speech preparation. The study examined whether behavioral intention to use mobile learning was significant and then measured behavioral intention across age groups, gender, and course experience. The research design used the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) instrument to identify the constructs that may explain undergraduate students intentions to use Skype as a tool for speech preparation in an introduction to public communications course. The model developed from the UTAUT2 explained 69% of the variability in behavioral intention. The results of this study support that the determinants of performance expectancy and hedonic motivation were the strongest predictors of behavioral intention in using mobile learning for speech preparation. Finally, this research study provides a greater understanding in undergraduate student acceptance and use of mobile learning for speech preparation using Skype.

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