Abstract
Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL) not only provides access to authentic learning resources and facilitates second language (L2) learning anytime and anywhere but also offers scope for informal learning beyond the classroom. Social media with instant messaging and multi-modal communication and information sharing provide platforms for interaction with peers and collaborative learning to hone their L2 skills. There is little research on informal learning through WhatsApp in enhancing L2 speaking skills. This paper studies the impact of interaction and informal learning in a WhatsApp group on improving a) fluency and coherence, b) lexical resource, c) grammatical range and accuracy and d) pronunciation which form the criteria for assessing speaking skills in IELTS. It also studies how participants perceive the changes in their speaking skills based on the band descriptors of IELTS. Mixed methods approach was adopted to obtain data from the group consisting of mixed ability participants (n=110) with pre and post speaking assessments and pre and post surveys. The participants were given collaborative learning activities and problem solving tasks at regular intervals for over two semesters. The results indicated statistically significant difference in their speaking skills and considerable change in their perceptions. The study has implications for both teachers and researchers of second language acquisition (SLA) for incorporating social media for interaction in the target language beyond the classroom.
Highlights
The rapid growth in mobile devices has advanced Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL) which is one of the key application areas in mobile learning [1]
As the previous studies on WhatsApp focused on learning language skills in the classroom, the current study focuses its impact on L2 speaking skills outside the classroom through informal learning
The impact of WhatsApp informal learning was assessed based on the Pretest and Posttest scores of the participants in Speaking Assessment Test
Summary
The rapid growth in mobile devices has advanced Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL) which is one of the key application areas in mobile learning [1]. In a recent review of second language learning using mobile technologies, mobile phones were identified as the most popular devices (67%) of all the other portable devices [2]. The widespread ownership of smartphones enables second language (L2) learners to utilize the opportunity and engage in informal discussions beyond the classroom [3]. The growing literature on integrating smartphone applications into classroom teaching at the tertiary level has been positive [4]. The present paper attempts to explore how the social media platform WhatsApp can enhance L2 speaking skills of tertiary students through interaction and informal learning. A brief review of related literature is presented to place the present study in its right context in the research literature on MALL
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