Abstract
Vocabulary plays a great role in language learning as learners would face difficulties in language learning if they have insufficient vocabulary knowledge. The advent of new technologies has encouraged the development of mobile assisted language learning (MALL) and the increase in mobile apps for vocabulary learning. Nonetheless, it would seem that there is a dearth in research on the use of mobile apps for vocabulary learning especially in our local contexts. Capitalising on the strength of phenomenological inquiry and a model for technology acceptance, this study investigated several existing mobile apps for language learning. In particular, it looked into students’ acceptance and the features of mobile apps conducive for vocabulary learning. This study employed in-depth interviews and surveys as instruments. Using purposive sampling technique, thirty-three students were selected as participants to experience using mobile apps to learn vocabulary on self-directed basis for a specified duration. At the end of the trial stage, all participants responded to the surveys, and three were interviewed. The accounts given by participants indicated positive acceptance and several desired features. Interestingly, this study also revealed several challenges in learning vocabulary through mobile apps which should be the concern of both apps developers and language teachers.
Highlights
Many studies conducted regarding the implementation of mobile learning in language learning reported positive acceptance by learners [40][7][5]
The findings show that the students have a positive acceptance towards the use of mobile apps in learning vocabulary
The findings indicated that students have positive acceptance towards the use of mobile apps in learning vocabulary
Summary
Many studies conducted regarding the implementation of mobile learning in language learning reported positive acceptance by learners [40][7][5]. Learners are willing to download educational materials and finding information when required through their mobile phones. They believed that the use of mobile phones helps in facilitating and increasing their effectiveness in communication for learning. Several studies conducted on the use of mobile phones for vocabulary learning leaning towards positive as far as learners’ acceptance and experience are concerned [9][23]. Despite the positive acceptance by learners, there are still challenges faced by them in adopting mobile phones for iJIM ‒ Vol 13, No 7, 2019
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