Abstract: This paper presents preliminary results of a mobile virtual learning environment (VLE) usage study conducted at a United Kingdom (UK) distance education institution. A total of 207 undergraduate students participated in the study over a period of 6 months. Study participants were recruited through email invitation. An online survey was conducted to gather both quantitative and qualitative data about (i) learner characteristics, (ii) awareness about the existence of the system, (iii) perceptions about the usefulness of the system to support learning, (iv) attitudes towards using mobile VLE tools to support learning, and (v) motives for using the system. Results indicate that perceived usefulness of the system and also familiarity with it usage in teaching and learning effects deployment in distance education. These findings confirm our assumptions that the design and integration of mobile VLE in teaching and learning should be closely aligned with pedagogical goals and established practices.