School management team perception on integration of smartphones as m-learning tools

The adoption and acceptance of mobile technologies as mobile learning (m-learning) tools in the education sector have brought benefits and opportunities in teaching and learning, especially in the 21st century. The study aims to determine the perceptions of the School Management Team members (SMT) on the use of smartphones as m-learning tools in selected secondary schools in King Cetshwayo District. The SMT members in secondary schools were targeted because they are key role players in schools in technology use and acceptance for teaching and learning purposes. The study employed a qualitative research approach to achieve the objective of this study. Ten principals were selected purposively from the selected secondary schools in King Cetshwayo District to conduct the research. Data were collected via interviews, and thematic analysis was employed. Four themes emerged: accessibility and availability, classroom integration, educational potential, and training and policies. The findings indicate that m-learning tools are essential for modern learning processes, as most SMT members recognize the potential of smartphone use to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes. The study recommends that adequate training should be made available to educators and that policies should be adopted and implemented for the effective integration of smartphones in secondary schools.