Determinants of Mobile Learning in Indigenous/Cultural Contexts: The Phenomenon in Canadian First Nations

Abstract

This goal of this qualitative study was to identify the determinants that assist post-secondary indigenous learners in an isolated fly in-only community to adapt and orient themselves between Eurocentric and Indigenous ways of learning. Digital technology (specifically mobile devices) was used to produce documentation for their adaptation and orientation. The outcomes of the study produced determinants that informed learning with digital technology in the research context. Informants showed a deep understanding of the problem, they were well meaning, eager and responsive to the study. The problem was more complex and participant responses indicated that rethinking and restructuring of the goals and tentative solutions for successful learning were needed. The solutions cannot be simply more technology or more pedagogy. Future research is key, but those research efforts must enter the community with a truly open mind and without any prefixed solutions.