Promoting ELT through Mobile Assisted Language Learning – MALL

Abstract

In this qualitative, descriptive, and case study research, the effect of applying Mobile Assisted Language Learning strategies (MALL) in the development of communicative skills in teachers at Universidad Santo Tomás (USTA) was analyzed. To achieve this goal, the following moments were defined: first, some applications focused on the development of language skills in English such as reading, grammar, listening and writing were characterized to define their contribution to the learning process. Second, a mobile learning strategy was implemented to guide and control the use of the applications in order to motivate learning and to encourage the development of different language skills. Along this stage, data was obtained from three varied sources: surveys, workshops and open interviews with a focus group that provided specific information to determine the outcome of the strategy implementation. Finally, the information was analyzed to determine the findings and conclusions. The results showed that teachers maintained their motivation during the process and were willing to learn English with the mediation of mobile learning strategies. Likewise, the participants’ performance improved along the whole process. As a final result, the implementation of this strategy helped to consolidate an ICT proposal for the Foreign Language and Cultures International Center (CILCE) at Universidad Santo Tomás (USTA).