Mobile-assisted Learning Research Articles

Learning (semi-)technical music words with mobile dictionary and/or machine-translation apps: performances and perceptions

This article examines the use of mobile dictionary and/or machine-translation (MT) apps to facilitate the learning of (semi-)technical music words. A total of 93 Chinese students were randomly assigned into three groups (31 each): the Dictionary Group, the MT Group, and the Dictionary + MT Group. They translated sentences containing the target semi-technical or technical words with the help of mobile dictionary or MT apps or both. It was found that the Dictionary Group had the best retention rates of semi-technical and technical words; the Dictionary + MT Group was in-between; and the MT Group had the worst retention rates. Analysis of dictionary look-up behaviors further showed that the Dictionary Group looked up twice as many (semi-)technical words as the Dictionary + MT Group. These findings are explained from the perspective of Cognitive Load Theory to show how the Dictionary Group had the best level of mental resources germane to vocabulary learning. Despite the inter-group differences of retention rates, perception surveys showed that the groups did not differ in their attitudes towards the dictionary or MT apps, suggesting that student performances and perceptions were misaligned. Based on the research findings, the article offers pedagogical implications for mobile-assisted learning of specialized words.

Mobile-assisted learning of Chinese as a second/foreign language abroad: A systematic literature review of studies between 2010 and 2022

Mobile-assisted learning of Chinese as a second/foreign language abroad: A systematic literature review of studies between 2010 and 2022

Using Mobile Augmented Reality to Increase Student English Language Learning

This research explores the impact of mobile-assisted learning with augmented reality (AR) on beginner English language learners, focusing on the utilization of Internet of Things through QR codes. In the digital era, characterized by the dominance of the Alpha generation, mobile learning has become pivotal, aligning with student-centered approaches. The study addresses challenges in vocabulary learning, noting limitations in conventional methods and student motivation. The theoretical framework encompasses mobile-based learning, digital learning, and AR, emphasizing their role in transforming education. AR, with its elements like users, devices, interaction, virtual content, tracking, and real-life entities, is positioned as a powerful tool to enhance interactive learning experiences. The research aims to investigate how mobile-assisted learning with AR can overcome understanding barriers for English language learners and assess the feasibility of its design for beginners. Ultimately, the study suggests that the integration of digital technologies, especially AR, holds promise for revolutionizing English language learning, addressing vocabulary challenges, and catering to the learning preferences of the Alpha generation in the digital era.

A Bibliometric Analysis on Trends and Patterns in Self-Regulated Language Learning in Mobile-Assisted Learning Environments

This study analysed 498 articles published between 2005 and 2023 on Self-regulated Language Learning (SRLL) indexed in the core collection of the Web of Science database, using a bibliometric methodology based on scientific mapping, co-occurrence and burstness analysis. Results show China is the most influential contributor to SRLL research, with the largest number of total publications and citations. According to the keyword co-occurrence and burstness analysis, mobile-learning, higher education, learning context, learner strategies stand out in this field. It is also shown that listening as a significant linguistic skill is less explored in the SRLL field. It is proven that learners' language skills could be improved through mobile-assisted collaborative learning in informal settings. By identifying the developmental patterns in SRLL research, this paper can guide future researchers to explore in-depth the significant issues in this field and bring insight for further SRLL studies in terms of themes, pedagogy and methodologies.

University students’ academic vocabulary development through mobile-assisted learning: Exploring the impacts on receptive and productive knowledge

This study explored the effectiveness of mobile-assisted vocabulary learning through digital flashcards on receptive and productive aspects of academic vocabulary knowledge among Iranian EFL university students. In a quasi-experimental design, 86 participants were divided into three groups: a digital flashcard group (DFs), a traditional paper flashcard (PFs) group, and a control group using word lists, to assess the impact of these methods on vocabulary acquisition over five weeks. The findings revealed that students utilizing DFs exhibited significant improvements in both receptive and productive vocabulary knowledge compared to those using PFs and the control method. Notably, the increase in receptive vocabulary was more substantial than in productive vocabulary, highlighting the differential effects of DFs on various aspects of vocabulary learning. This finding underscores the need for targeted strategies to enhance productive aspects of academic vocabulary specifically. The study supports the integration of DFs into English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programs to leverage their potential in boosting vocabulary acquisition effectively. However, the lesser gains in productive vocabulary suggest the necessity for complementary instructional methods, which focus on more active vocabulary learning tasks. Based on these findings, the study argues that mobile-assisted vocabulary learning should be considered a practical strategy for supporting academic vocabulary development among university students.

Exploring the impacts of mobile-assisted learning on university students’ technical vocabulary knowledge

Technical vocabulary acquisition holds paramount significance within academic and professional contexts. This research delves into the transformative potential of Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) in facilitating university students' mastery of technical words. The study examined the efficacy of digital flashcards (DFs) compared to traditional paper-based flashcards (PFs) as pedagogical tools for vocabulary instruction. In doing so, 80 Iranian psychology students with intermediate English proficiency participated in this research with an intervention that lasted for ten weeks. Their vocabulary knowledge was assessed using the Vocabulary Knowledge Scale (VKS) pre- and post-intervention, with an additional delayed post-test administered six weeks later. The results of mixed between-within analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that those using DFs outperformed the control learning condition (PFs) in both post-test (p < 0.001, η² = 0.240) and delayed post-test assessments (p < 0.001, Partial η² = 0.407), signifying the effectiveness of mobile-assisted learning in developing receptive and productive written knowledge of technical vocabulary. Additionally, the findings demonstrated that students who engaged with DFs exhibited substantially greater retention and recall of technical vocabulary over time (i.e., a significant effect for time), indicating the long-term benefits of MALL. The practical implications of these findings extend to English language teachers and learners in specialized fields, emphasizing the pedagogical value of mobile technology in optimizing technical vocabulary instruction.

Examining the effects of two cognitive styles (field dependence vs. field independence) on learners’ mobile-assisted vocabulary acquisition

Abstract Learners with different cognitive styles (here, field dependence vs. field independence) may learn second language vocabulary differently in different vocabulary learning settings. Although cognitive style has been widely studied in second language research, little is known about how field dependence/independence affects learners’ vocabulary acquisition in a mobile-assisted learning setting. One approach to solve this problem is to investigate the possible effect(s) of field dependence/independence on learners’ short-term vocabulary recall in a mobile-assisted vocabulary acquisition setting (here, Memrise). To investigate such effect(s), this study adopted a pretest-posttest design involving 147 intermediate-level learners of English as a second language. Using the Group Embedded Figures Test, participants were divided into two groups: field dependent and field independent learners. For 4 weeks, both groups practiced and reinforced a set of English vocabulary, selected from the Vocabulary Level Test, through Memrise flashcards. Our findings reveal a post-intervention improvement among both field-dependent and field-independent learners, but with field-independent learners slightly outperforming their counterparts in the short-term recall of the vocabulary. Implications and recommendations for future research are discussed.

Designing a Production-oriented Approach-Based Mobile-Assisted Interpreting Learning Module Using Fuzzy Delphi Method

This research addresses a significant gap in the field of interpreting education. While interpreting is widely acknowledged as a complex language skill, it has received minimal attention in educational research. Despite the advancements in language education, mobile-assisted learning has gained popularity as an effective teaching method. However, it remains largely unexplored in interpreting education. This study stands out by introducing a novel mobile-assisted interpreting learning (MAIL) module based on the productionoriented approach, which combines mobile technology with language learning. To ensure the credibility of the module, a fuzzy Delphi method (FDM) involving fifteen experts was employed. This method resulted in a strong consensus on the elements, objectives, content, procedure, and design of the mobile device. Notably, 37 out of the 39 elements received unanimous approval from the experts. The final output is a practical and implementable module called production-oriented approach-based mobile-assisted interpreting learning (POMAIL). It includes a clear flowchart designed for educators and researchers. This research makes a significant contribution to the field of education by providing valuable guidance in mobile-assisted learning and language education. It has the potential to reshape the field.

Learning Engagement of Adult Females in Remote Physical Fitness Program Through Mobile App Intervention

The use of digital devices such as laptops, personal digital assistants, and mobile phones as learning tools has gained prominence in formal education, generating increased research interest in potential growth areas. According to Jeong and So (2020), there seems to be inadequate empirical evidence from extensive research to support its learning effectiveness in the fitness domain, especially among women who have been underrepresented in economically stressed areas. One of the several explanations for this disparity is the failure to consider women’s intersecting cultural identities or potential for social impact. This paper focuses on addressing this issue by conducting a qualitative study. It involves a focus group comprising 15 adult females aged 24 and above. The primary objective is to assess how virtual learning influences the learning perception of adult female learners at a yoga and fitness studio. Interactive self-paced mobile-assisted learning modules were facilitated through the use of mobile phones. An open-ended questionnaire was designed using online resources for primary data collection. The findings were derived by cross-referencing data collected from recordings, interviews, and questionnaires. The study revealed that participating in online fitness classes could enhance women's involvement in fitness-related activities.

Integrating mobile-assisted learning for a dynamic blended approach in higher education

&lt;span&gt;This research investigates the effectiveness of blended learning with mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) in english courses at Borneo University Tarakan. An experimental design was used with 80 english as a foreign language (EFL) student randomly assigned to an experimental group (EG) receiving blended learning with MALL and a control group (CG) receiving traditional instruction. The results demonstrate that blended learning with MALL significantly improves language learning outcomes and increases motivation, engagement, and satisfaction. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting language learning outcomes from a blended approach using MALL and emphasizes the importance of innovative teaching methods and technology integration. The findings have practical implications for educators, suggesting that incorporating MALL in blended learning enhances language learning outcomes and student engagement. Further research can explore the impact of MALL on different language skills and strategies to enhance intrinsic motivation in MALL-blended learning. &lt;br /&gt; This research provides valuable insights for improving language instruction through blended learning approaches.&lt;/span&gt;

Effects of Screen Time on Foreign Language Learning in College Students

In recent years, with the development of the Internet, the Internet provides us with endless resources, and the development of mobile communication technology makes college students use screen time in most of their lives. Many different network technologies, apps, etc., have a great impact on college students foreign language learning. How to use screen time to improve students foreign language learning ability and promote the development of education has become the focus of foreign language teaching. Through a questionnaire survey of 20 college students and a semi-structured interview, and through the analysis of the data, it is found that more college students tend to use mobile assisted learning (MALL) to learn English, but it also leads to more problems. From the perspective of college students, this paper discusses the impact of screen time on college students, as well as the opportunities and challenges brought by MALL to college students English learning.

Supporting learners self-management for self-directed language learning: a study within Duolingo

PurposeThis study aims to investigate a unique approach to learning languages through self-directed online learning. Specifically, it explores the self-management abilities and skills learners need while learning a language outside traditional classroom settings when using mobile-assisted learning technology.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-methods approach was used in this study, including an online survey of 84 people and 10 semi-structured interviews.FindingsFindings reveal the significant role of specific and well-defined learning goals in enhancing learners’ performance. These goals can be either self-initiated by the learners themselves or defined by the technological features of the learning platform. However, the presence of distractions in learners’ daily lives presents challenges to effective time management, affecting learners both physically and psychologically. A key aspect of self-directed language learning lies in the learners’ ability to seek out relevant human and material resources beyond the confines of a single mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) tool. The authenticity of these resources is crucial in ensuring meaningful and effective learning experiences.Research limitations/implicationsUnderstanding how learners navigate and discover valuable resources is a central focus of this study. This research offers valuable insights into the field of self-directed language learning, revealing the pivotal role of self-management skills with mobile-assisted learning technology. The findings contribute to the broader field of language education and offer practical implications for educators and developers seeking to optimize self-directed language learning experiences through innovative and technologically driven approaches.Originality/valueMALL is often ideal for individualized informal learning, but the existing literature focuses heavily on formal learning situations, underestimating the importance of MALL practices in various informal settings. Most research reports on MALL-based self-directed learning primarily sample traditional English-learning university students. Therefore, there is a need for research on how nontraditional older adult learners self-direct their language learning with mobile technology outside the classroom.

The Efficiency of Tailored Systems for Language Education: An App Based on Scientific Evidence and for Student-Centered Approach

&lt;p style="text-align: justify;"&gt;In the vulnerable and unstable contexts that characterize populations in mobility between countries, especially immigrants and refugees, the second language learning has assumed new traits of difficulty. To help the new generation of learners, mainly with origin in forced immigration, the mobile-assisted learning helps motivation for language learning and reduces anxiety related to language acquisition. Attending to this challenge educational scenario, this review study presents a literature systematic analysis and a concrete technology tool that advocates the student-centered approach. A mobile pedagogical plan was developed for the learning of European Portuguese as a Second Language and as a Foreign Language. A critical review of 38 studies was conducted to understand how the mobile-assisted learning responds to the inclusion and education, especially concerning minorities. Based on previous empirical data with 108 immigrants, we understand the type of tasks that new immigrants have more difficulty learning in Portuguese. It was developed as a mobile app for Android, IOS, computers and tablets: the GoGenius app. In mobile format, individuals can access fourteen themed units with a symmetrical game architecture. These games focused the tasks and themes with priority for new language learners who recently arrived in a hosting country. These units involve a consistent number of working hours that intentionally intend to complement to the contact hours that the subjects have in classroom contexts or in unstable communication contexts (daily communication). This technology project aims to match “tailored” psychological and technological resources. Flipped classroom approach showed how mobile-assisted learning reinforces the educational goals worldwide, specifically for language learning. However, mobile tools should be well structured and centered on students’ needs, especially with migration backgrounds.&lt;/p&gt;

Perceptions of Postgraduate Students Towards the use of Kahoot as A Formative Assessment Tool in an English Language Course

One of the transformations of the past decade has been the rapid and increased integration of the Internet and technological tools, particularly mobile-assisted learning (MAL) and gamification tool such as Kahoot, into EFL classrooms from across the world. Studies have shown that the gamified elements of such tools as Kahoot can enhance language learning performance and be utilised as influential teaching and assessment tools in language classrooms. Nevertheless, its application is yet quite new to EFL Kurdish classrooms; as observed, very few university instructors employ it. Furthermore, the acceptance of technological tools in general and Kahoot in particular by students and their perceptions towards its use is deemed significant due to its strong correlation with the overall language learning performance. Kahoot has been extensively researched in various educational contexts. Nevertheless, no study has reported students' perceptions of its use in EFL Kurdish classes. Therefore, the present study aimed at tackling Kurdish postgraduate students' perceptions towards implementing Kahoot in a six-week English language course and detecting their performance on Kahoot throughout the course, as well as showing gender differences in their perceptions. The study adopted a 24-item questionnaire on a 5-point Likert scale embedded in it two open-ended questions and students’ grades in the course. Almost all the students accepted the application and reported positive perceptions of using Kahoot in the course. However, Kahoot might lead to frustration and torpor on the students' part if not timed and designed correctly.

Out-of-the-classroom learning of English vocabulary by EFL learners: investigating the effectiveness of mobile assisted learning with digital flashcards

The importance of vocabulary knowledge as one of the most challenging aspects of foreign language learning has been widely acknowledged. In order to facilitate learning vocabulary items in English by language learners, mobile assisted vocabulary learning attracted considerable attention in recent years. Nevertheless, the application of mobile devices for learning the most frequently used vocabulary items in core vocabulary lists received far less attention. To address this gap, the current study investigated the contribution of a digital flashcard application (i.e. NGSL builder) designed for smartphone devices in out-of-the-classroom learning of essential vocabulary in English among EFL learners. The participants were 86 university students in experimental and control groups. In addition to formal language education during a semester, the experimental group used the mobile application for studying vocabulary items outside the classroom, while the control group used traditional materials (i.e. word list) to study the same content. The participants’ vocabulary knowledge was measured in three times (pre, post, and delayed posttest), and the results revealed that the use of mobile applications contributed significantly to vocabulary knowledge development, and those in the experimental group outperformed their counterparts in the control group. The findings also provided empirical evidence for the long-term impacts of mobile-assisted vocabulary learning. The study highlights the significance of mobile technologies in helping L2 learners to acquire essential vocabulary in English and discusses the pedagogical implications of these findings.

Facilitating Sustainable Self-Directed Learning Experience with the Use of Mobile-Assisted Language Learning

This study explored the impact of utilizing mobile-assisted language learning to help EFL university students promote their learning performance and support a sustainable self-directed learning experience while developing digital literacy and technology competence. The global pandemic and spread of COVID-19 have accelerated the convergence of technology in the classroom in response to an emergency where the sustainability of education is at stake. With the progress of digital technology, a variety of smart mobile applications have been applied in English language learning and teaching. The use of those technologies can encourage language learners to practice self-directed learning beyond the classroom settings, which is essential for motivated and autonomous learning. Mobile phone applications have great potential as effective pedagogical tools with features such as accessibility, manageable interface, and multifunctional components. However, the use of mobile-assisted language learning for sustainable, self-directed learning outside the classroom has been relatively under-researched. In this study, EFL university students engaged in mobile-assisted language learning that could make their learning more sustainable and independent outside of the classroom. The data of this study show that students’ attitudes toward participating in mobile-assisted English language learning were affirmative. The results show that incorporation of mobile applications into language learning could foster learner motivation and make their learning more sustainable and entertaining than simply using the conventional instructional methods. Participants of this study stated that major benefits of experiencing mobile-assisted learning for their English study were ease of access to learning contents, portability of the learning tools, flexible and self-directed learning environment, better interaction, and improved self-efficacy in English learning performance. The pedagogical implications of the study are discussed, and instructional strategies are suggested to share ideas about a more pertinent learning environment in the era of digital transformation.

An Experimental Study on the Use of Mobile Learning in the Turkish Republic Revolution History and Kemalism: Adıyaman Provinve Example

The usage area of mobile learning in teaching and learning activities is increasing day by day. In this research, 8th Grade Turkish Republic The effect of mobile learning on the acquisition of the achievements of the units "National Awakening, Steps Towards Independence and A National Epic: Either Either Freedom or Death" in the Revolution History and Kemalism was examined. A quasi-experimental design with pretest-posttest control group was used in the research. The participants of the study consisted of 56 students, 28 of them in the experimental group and 28 of them in the control group, studying at a state secondary school in a province located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region. Achievement test and attitude scale were applied as data collection tools. Data Analysis Confirmatory factor analysis, dependent sample t-test and independent sample t-test were calculated using SPSS 21.00 program. According to the results of the research, a significant difference was found between the experimental and control groups in terms of achievement scores in favor of the experimental group. In addition, no significant difference was found in the attitudes of students towards mobile assisted learning in both groups. Based on the results of the research, the some suggestions have been developed to increase its use in the Revolution History and Kemalism.

Effects of Mobile-Assisted Blended Learning on University Students’ English Speaking Proficiency in Korea

Effects of Mobile-Assisted Blended Learning on University Students’ English Speaking Proficiency in Korea

Self-efficacy of Art Undergraduates in Mobile-assisted English Learning

This research adopts the questionnaire survey method and selects 208 freshmen from the Guangxi Arts University as the research objects. The research studies the English self-efficacy and mobile learning situation of art college students and understands students’ views on using mobile devices/platform to assist in their learning of the English language. Results found that all students have mobile phones which allow teachers and students to use them for English learning. Besides, most art college students have a low sense of English self-efficacy, including low self-confidence, low enthusiasm in English learning, and average level of solving English learning difficulties. In addition, more than half of the students agree with the use of mobile devices/platforms to assist in English learning. Only a small number of people oppose it. This finding lays a preliminary foundation for later empirical research on using mobile learning to cultivate the English self-efficacy of art students.

A Systematic Review of Vocabulary Learning with Mobile-Assisted Learning Platforms

This paper presents a systematic review of relevant published studies on the use of mobile-assisted learning platforms in vocabulary learning. This systematic review aims to explore the effectiveness of the mobile-assisted learning platforms on the vocabulary learning of ESL/EFL learners and the perceptions of students in the learning of vocabulary using mobile-assisted learning platforms. Following a systematic search and application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, twenty studies were retained and subjected to data analysis and synthesis for the systematic review. Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Educational Resources Information Centre (ERIC), SAGE, Scopus, Springer e-journals, Web of Science and JSTOR databases were searched to identify relevant studies. Results indicate that the mobile-assisted learning platforms aid ESL/EFL learners in vocabulary acquisition, enhance vocabulary retention, increase motivation and provide rich and supplemental language learning materials and experience. The findings of the past related studies also highlight that students perceived vocabulary learning using mobile-assisted learning platforms as efficient, easy to use, flexible and accessible, satisfying, entertaining and interesting. However, there are also some negative perceptions of students towards the use of mobile-assisted learning platforms in the learning of vocabulary. As mobile-assisted learning platforms bring more advantages than disadvantages, educators and teachers shall explore and implement them in language classrooms to engage and motivate students in vocabulary learning.