Learning Vocabulary in the App Store by EFL College Students

Reima Al-Jarf

doi:10.47191/ijsshr/v5-i1-30

Abstract

This article gives examples of mobile vocabulary apps (MVAs) that can be downloaded from the Google Play or Apple App Stores and used as extension activities or a supplement to in-class vocabulary instruction in EFL such as English word study, advanced English vocabulary, test your English vocabulary, English vocabulary level I, II & III, 1000 TOEFL words and others. There are also mobile dictionary apps, graded vocabulary tests for assessing vocabulary knowledge and skills and vocabulary trainers for the TOEFL and IELTS test vocabulary. In addition, the article gives guidelines for searching for, selecting, and using MVAs, the phases of teaching with MVAs and the instructor's role. The instructor can help the students find and download relevant MVAs, give pre-questions, and follow the students up to make sure they are making the best use of them. Recommendations for using MVAs with EFL freshman students are given.

Highlights

Many young people spend a great deal of time interacting with their mobile devices
The Android and Apple App Stores have a multitude of vocabulary applications that English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students of different proficiency levels can download and use for developing their vocabulary skills through mobile learning
In general, and vocabulary learning apps, in particular, are used in numerous countries to enrich students’ vocabulary acquisition, there is lack of studies in Saudi Arabia that investigate the utilization of mobile vocabulary apps (MVAs) in first and second language learning at the primary, secondary and college levels

Summary

Introduction

Many young people spend a great deal of time interacting with their mobile devices. Smart phones feature an Android and Apple App Stores which have thousands of applications in a variety of subject areas and categories including language learning. Special needs college students can use mobile Apps to learn English (Al-Jarf, 2021a).

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