Mobile-Assisted Language Learning

Abstract

The main characteristics of mobile learning (m-learning) are recognized as the potential for learning process to be personalized, spontaneous, informal and ubiquitous. Although learning through mobile phones may take longer time compared to computers, the learners feel a greater sense of freedom of time and place, so that they can take the advantage of spare time to learn a second language when and where they are. Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) deals with the use of mobile technology in language learning. In contrast to classroom learning, in MALL there is no need for the learners to sit in a classroom or at a computer to get learning materials. In fact, MALL can be considered an ideal solution to language learning barriers in terms of time and place. In this paper by looking at some applications of m-learning as well as some examples across various aspects of it, we observe the advantages and disadvantages derived from using mobile technologies for students as well as professionals. Here, it has been tried to demonstrate the benefits of using mobile phones in learning English as a second language. Areas of mobile-based language learning discussed in this paper are vocabulary, listening, grammar, phonetics, and reading comprehension.

Integrating Mobile Phones into the EFL Foundation Year Classroom in King Abdulaziz University/KSA: Effects on Achievement in General English and Students’ Attitudes

“…The results were in favor of the experimental group. Miangah and Nezarat (2012) pointed out that the main characteristics of mobile learning are recognized as potential for the learning process to be personalized, spontaneous, informal and continuous. Despite the fact that learning through mobile phones may take longer time compared to computers, the learners enjoy greater sense of freedom of time and place, so that they can take the advantage of spare time to learn a second language whenever and wherever they want.…”

Pengembangan Mobile-Assisted Language Learning Menggunakan User Centered Design

“…M-learning adalah pembelajaran personal yang dilakukan di mana saja dan kapan saja dengan menggunakan keuntungan fungsionalitas yang disediakan oleh perangkat mobile [3], [4]. M-learning memiliki banyak keuntungan, antara lain lebih ditekankan pada pembelajaran kolaboratif, meningkatkan mobilitas, menghemat waktu, ramah lingkungan, interaktif, dan murah karena menggunakan teknologi terkini [5], [6].…”

“…Salah satu jenis pembelajaran m-learning adalah mobileassisted language learning (MALL) yang berhubungan dengan penggunaan teknologi mobile dalam proses pembelajaran bahasa (semua bahasa) [6]. Teknologi mobile tersebut memiliki karakteristik dalam hal portabilitas, konektivitas, interaksi sosial, sensitivitas konteks, dan individualitas [7], [8].…”

“…M-learning adalah pembelajaran personal yang dilakukan di mana saja dan kapan saja dengan menggunakan keuntungan fungsionalitas yang disediakan oleh perangkat mobile [3], [4]. M-learning memiliki banyak keuntungan, antara lain lebih ditekankan pada pembelajaran kolaboratif, meningkatkan mobilitas, menghemat waktu, ramah lingkungan, interaktif, dan murah karena menggunakan teknologi terkini [5], [6].Salah satu jenis pembelajaran m-learning adalah mobileassisted language learning (MALL) yang berhubungan dengan penggunaan teknologi mobile dalam proses pembelajaran bahasa (semua bahasa) [6]. Teknologi mobile tersebut memiliki karakteristik dalam hal portabilitas, konektivitas, interaksi sosial, sensitivitas konteks, dan individualitas [7], [8].…”

Opportunities and Challenges of Mobile Learning That University Students Encounter in the UAE

“…For example, it has been shown that cell phones are increasingly used for improving knowledge of vocabulary, grammar, listening, and speaking, in both formal and informal settings (Miangah, & Nezarat, 2012). Furthermore, the use of mobile tools to support content with social communication features are known to empower teachers and students to participate in more cooperative learning environments .…”