Classification of use profiles of smartphones in students and teachers of Autonomous University of Baja California, México

Abstract

The use of portable technological resources in general and smartphones in particular, is a growing social phenomenon during the last decade, especially among the younger generation. From the multiplicity of media and applications offered by smartphones, mainly concerning communication, information management and media, is seen great educational potential, which has led to the development of mobile learning concept. This paper proposes a classification of use profiles of smartphones from a representative sample of students and teachers of the Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC), Mexico. It performed a cluster analysis (K-Means Clusters). The results indicate that advanced use profiles relate to a higher percentage of educational use assigned to the smartphones, higher self-concept to the use of technology in general, a better management of English language and higher levels of expertise (frequency, perception and ability) of use of these resources.