Study of Mobile Learning in Paramedical Students of Biochemistry in a Govt. Medical College

Background: Mobile learning is a type of Technology of learning with portable hand held electronic devices such as Tablet, computers, net-books and digital readers to provide a myriad of opportunities to support learning and performance both inside and outside the class rooms. Aim: The study was aimed to assess and evaluate the use of mobile learning technology as an educational tool among the paramedical students of Biochemistry. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted among 100 paramedical students attending Biochemistry department of Sri Venkateswara Medical College (Govt.), Tirupathi, Andhra Pradesh with a method of 9 point Mobile Learning questionnaire issued to all the students after obtaining consent. Data was collected and analysed by simple statistical methods. Results: This study showed a Sex distribution ratio of males 48 (48%) and Females 52 (52%). 31(31%) were I yr BPT students, 25(25%) were II yr BSc MLT, 21(21%) were III yr BSc MLT, 17(17%) were Ist yr DMLT and 6 (06%) were In-Service Lab Technicians and Lab Attendant Trainees. 20 (65%) BPT, 10 (40%) II BSc.MLT, 13(62%) III BSc.MLT and 7(41%) I DMLT students were using m-learning, whereas 11(35%) BPT, 15(60%) II BSc.MLT, 08(38%) III BSc.MLT, 10(59%) and I Yr DMLT students were not using m-learning. Among in-service trainees none of them were using m-learning. On the whole 50 (50%) were using smart devices for M-learning as an educational tool. Remaining 50 (50%) could not use due to lack of internet access, lack of technical knowledge and cost of instrument etc. Conclusion: This study concludes that 50% of the paramedical students used smart devices for learning and their mobile learning capabilities will expand with the introduction of smaller sophisticated and powerful gadgets capable of delivering data anywhere at any time in promoting the access and quality of education.