Exploring Mobile Apps in English Learning

Abstract

With the gradual integration of information technology in education, mobile devices have been critical tools to achieve informal learning in the domain of language. The application software uploaded to mobile devices with its characteristics of intelligence, personalization, game, and sociability, breaks the limitations of traditional learning methods in time and space and has been of great help to learning languages. In China, English as an International language is a compulsory course in elementary and secondary education, which is also important for college students who are required to pass English-level exams CET-4 and CET-6. Therefore, based on the literature research in the past ten years, this paper attempts to fully reveal the advantages and disadvantages of mobile apps for English learning and explore the challenges they face. Studies have shown that language learning apps have incomparable advantages: 1) user-friendly design, 2) wide-range available learning materials, 3) effectiveness in improving English skills and learning motivation, 4) effectiveness in aiding traditional English teaching. However, it still has some defects in its own design and practical use: 1) the under-improved feedback and connects functions, 2) the low-efficient Internet connection, 3) the not-so-good external environment for its use, and the insufficient utilization. This paper proposes that it is necessary for teachers, educators, and developers to make a joint effort in order to design more engaging and effective apps for English learning. It is also key to give guidance to students and teachers in order to achieve the full utilization of apps.