Modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology in Investigating Iranian Language Learners’ Attitudes Toward Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL)

Abstract

Introduction: The modified unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (MUTAUT) was used in this mixed methods study to investigate language learners' attitudes toward mobile assisted language learning (MALL). Methods: Two different student surveys were used to collect data quantitatively. The surveys consisted of 24 and 23 items, respectively, rated on a 6-point Likert scale. Reliability was estimated to be 0.92 and 0.95, respectively. To collect data qualitatively, language learners were interviewed regarding their opinions on MALL. Standard multiple regression and descriptive statistics employing IBM SPSS version 21 were used to analyze the data.Results: Analysis of quantitative data revealed that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and perceived playfulness were significant predictors of the behavioral intention to use mobile devices, while self-management of learning and social influence were not (P < 0.001). Analysis of descriptive statistics from the second survey showed that language learners have totally positive attitudes toward effectiveness and satisfaction; however, their attitudes about usefulness were somewhat mixed. Analysis of qualitative data generally confirmed the quantitative results. Conclusions: Language instructors should motivate students to use mobile devices to learn, become more autonomous language learners, and manage their own learning.

Extending the UTAUT Model of Gamified English Vocabulary Applications by Adding New Personality Constructs

“…Unlike prior studies which revealed non-correlation or positive correlation between SI and BI [27,58], this study proved that SI was negatively related to BI. After reviewing answers to the open-ended question in the survey, we assume that peer pressure might be a possible reason for deterring people from intending to use gamified vocabulary apps.…”

“…Effort expectancy in UTAUT referred to the expected degree of ease using a particular system, which was derived from Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) [25]. In many studies of mobile-assisted language learning (MALL), EE correlated with BI [23,26,27]. However, some studies found contradictory results with EE neither influencing BI nor being a significant predictor of BI [28,29].…”

“…Social influence was defined as the degree that an individual was influenced to use a system by his or her important others [15]. Although plenty of empirical studies confirmed the significant correlation between SI and BI [23,26,29,30], some cases revealed that the two variables were not necessarily related to each other [27]. This research thus planned to further investigate this pair of relationship in gamified vocabulary applications.…”

An Exploratory Investigation Into Factors Contributing to Computer-Based Testing

“…Thus, many more sophisticated types of technology have been developed recently. Over the past three decades, technology has made significant inroads into educational settings (1)(2)(3). Technology may affect the ways of thinking, decision making, teaching, and learning processes, curriculum development, materials production, as well as evaluation of teaching and learning (4).…”