This comparative study uses the Diffusion of Innovation (DoI) theoretical framework to explore factors that influence diffusion of mobile devices in higher education in Botswana and Namibia. The five attributes (Relative Avantage, Compatability, Complexity, Trialability, and Observability) of the persuasion stage, which have been found in previous studies to influence the DoI were used to explore factors that influence the diffusion process of mobile devices at the University of Botswana and University of Namibia. For the participants in this study, Complexity, Trialability, and Observability appeared to be the three factors that shed light on why mobile devices are popular among students for outside class activities such as texting and accessing social media websites, but their use in higher education has not gained the same degree of popularity as they have in social settings. In other words, data imply that mobile devices are seen by participants in this study as complicated and are limited in their Trialability and Observability. The main implication here is that if mobile devices are to fully diffuse for participants in this study, complexity issues must be revealed and attempts made to reduce them. Similarly, attempts should be made to promote environments that provide opportunities to try out mobile devices for teaching and learning. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]