Methodological Issues in Mobile Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (mCSCL): What Methods, What to Measure and When to Measure?

This study aims to investigate (1) methods utilized in mobile computer-supported collaborative learning (mCSCL) research which focuses on studying, learning and collaboration mediated by mobile devices; (2) whether these methods have examined mCSCL effectively; (3) when the methods are administered; and (4) what methodological issues exist in mCSCL studies. It attempts to bring to light methods more conducive to examining the effectiveness of mCSCL and thus to sustain the practices. The research findings reveal a variety of methodological issues that need to be addressed. Comparison is made to the findings in CSCL research and other studies leveraged by mobile technologies. Potential ways to investigate the effectiveness of mCSCL practices are proposed.