The Use of iPad and Applications for English Language Education

Abstract

Abstract-This article examines the importance of the iPad use and presents numerous useful applications employed in the field of education, especially in the field of English language teaching and learning. This topic is of great importance as educators and students alike, these days, live in the digital era, which entails new technological advances that may positively benefit the instruction of varied school subjects. Additionally, the use of new technologies (e.g., iPad and educational applications) in the classroom setting may motivate and foster the acquisition of necessary twenty-first century abilities among students. With the aim of achieving the aforementioned objectives, first and foremost the role of digital technologies and m-learning in education is analyzed, since these two aspects have a direct relationship with the main topic of this work. In addition, a conceptualization and main characteristics of the iPad are provided. Then the use of this device in different educational settings at the international level is highlighted. Finally, the use of this device as a didactic tool in the language learning classroom is discussed and a selection of meaningful applications for English language teaching and learning is provided. As educators, in the digital era, is our responsibility to remain constantly updated to provide our students with an education aligned with the new technological advancements and, above all, to enrich their learning inside and outside the classroom. Consequently, this will promote a more autonomous and lifelong learning among our language students.

Smart Device Usage Frequency and Usage Level for Learning English

“…Also, the features in smart devices offer information related to worlds that have become stuck in students' minds after watching or hearing many details about such words. [9] maintain that using iPads in education encourages lifelong learning among second language learners. It is obvious that learning through iPads or tablets has a positive effect on the process of learning another language.…”

El impacto del iPad en la cognición de los profesores de inglés en México

“…Moreover, Lawrence (2016) and Alzaidiyeen (2017) demonstrated the positive acceptance of the iPad by both students and teachers in the language classroom. Finally, Auquilla and Urgilés (2017) state that "it is evident that the use of the Apple's iPad device and educational apps may have a crucial role in today's classroom instruction because they both can greatly enrich the teaching-learning process in English language lessons" (p. 714). Therefore, the reactions of the teachers were not surprising due to the previous findings in non-Mexican contexts.…”

A Framework for Evaluating Tablet-based Educational Applications for Primary School Levels in Thailand

“…Research has shown that tablets can be integrated with a variety of instructional teaching techniques, but that it can be difficult to achieve teaching goals and maintain students' attention in class [5]. In view of this, other experiments found that learners' likes, interests, and needs are critical to deploying iPads applications at schools [6]. One point that is in agreement is that a proper pedagogy and instructional activities are needed to integrate tablets at class [3].…”