Exploring the Impact of Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) on the Autonomous English Learning of EFL Sophomores: A Case Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54855/paic.24616Keywords:
autonomous learning, MALL, mobile, technologyAbstract
This study explores the use of Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) among sophomore English majors at a Vietnamese university, focusing on their engagement, perceptions, and its impact on their autonomous English language learning. Specifically, it identifies commonly used mobile devices and applications, analyzes the impact of MALL on students’ language competencies, and examines how students perceive the role of MALL in their learning autonomy. Data were collected from 150 sophomores via a questionnaire, revealing that smartphones and applications such as Duolingo, ELSA Speak, and YouTube were the most popular tools for improving vocabulary and listening skills. The findings suggest that while MALL offers significant benefits, such as accessibility and convenience, students also face challenges, including distractions and limited pedagogical explanations. Despite these drawbacks, MALL was positively perceived by students for enhancing their language proficiency and fostering independent learning. The study recommends further exploration into integrating MALL with blended and flipped classroom approaches to maximize its advantages in English language education.References
Ahmed, A. A. A., Hassan, I., Pallathadka, H., Keezhatta, M. S., Noorman Haryadi, R., Al Mashhadani, Z. I., ... & Rohi, A. (2022). MALL and EFL learners’ speaking: Impacts of Duolingo and WhatsApp applications on speaking accuracy and fluency. Education Research International, 2022, 1-10. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2022/6716474 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/6716474
Alqahtani, E. T. (2014). Effectiveness of using YouTube on enhancing EFL students’ listening comprehension skills. Al-Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University. Saudi Arabia.
Alzubi, A. A. F., & Singh, M. K. M. (2017). The use of learner autonomy in English as a foreign language context among Saudi undergraduates enrolled in preparatory year deanship at Najran University. Advances in Language and Literary Studies, 8(2), 152-160. https://doi.org/10.7575/aiac.alls.v.8n.2p.152 DOI: https://doi.org/10.7575/aiac.alls.v.8n.2p.152
Azar, A. S., & Nasiri, H. (2014). Learners’ attitudes toward the effectiveness of Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL) in L2 listening comprehension. Procedia-Social Behavioral Sciences, 98, 1836-1843. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2014.03.613 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2014.03.613
Benlaghrissi, H., & Ouahidi, L. M. (2024). The impact of mobile-assisted project-based learning on developing EFL students' speaking skills. Smart Learning Environments, 11(1), 18. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40561-024-00303-y DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40561-024-00303-y
Baek, J., & Lee, C. H. (2018). University students' perceptions and engagement in mobile-assisted blended learning in English speaking classes. Multimedia Assisted Language Learning, 21(4), 11-36. http://doi.org/10.15702/mall.2018.21.4.11
Baleghizadeh, S., & Oladrostam, E. (2010). The effect of mobile assisted language learning (MALL) on grammatical accuracy of EFL students. Mextesol Journal, 34(2), 1-10. Retrieved from https://www.mextesol.net/journal/index.php?page=journal&id_article=50
Bravo, E., Amante, B., & Mihaela Enache, P. (2011). Video as a New Teaching Tool to Increase Student Motivation. Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON), 638 - 642. IEEE. https://doi.org/10.1109/EDUCON.2011.5773205 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1109/EDUCON.2011.5773205
Chinnery, G. M. (2006). Emerging technologies Going to the MALL: Mobile-Assisted Language Learning. Language Learning & Technology, 10(1), 9-16. http://dx.doi.org/10125/44040
Dağdeler, K. O., Konca, M. Y., & Demiröz, H. (2020). The effect of mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) on EFL learners’ collocation learning. Journal of Language and Linguistic Studies, 16(1), 489-509. https://doi.org/10.17263/jlls.712891 DOI: https://doi.org/10.17263/jlls.712891
Davie, N. & Hilber, T. (2015). Mobile-Assisted language learning: Student attitudes to using smartphones to learn English vocabulary. Proceedings of International Association for Development of the Information Society (IADIS) International Conference on Mobile Learning (11th, Madeira, Portugal, Mar 14-16), 70-78. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED562454.pdf
Dizon, G. (2016). Quizlet in the EFL classroom: Enhancing academic vocabulary acquisition of Japanese university students. Teaching English with Technology, 16(2), 40-56. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1135913.pdf
Hunter, J., & Cooke, D. (2007). Through autonomy to agency: giving power to language learners. Prospect, 22(2), 72-88. Retrieved from https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&type=pdf&doi=0bcc7937a31672567c828bd59627146befadadb1
Jaelani, A., & Adung, N. (2022). The use of mobile-assisted language learning to promote learner autonomy in the EFL speaking context. JEE (Journal of English Education), 8(1), 68-84. http://dx.doi.org/10.30606/jee.v8i1.1284 DOI: https://doi.org/10.30606/jee.v8i1.1284
Jawad, H. F. (2024). The impact of mobile learning to improve the listening and speaking skills. In AIP Conference Proceedings, 3092(1), 040001. AIP Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0200513 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0200513
Kassem, M. A. M. (2018). The effect of a suggested in-service teacher training program based on MALL applications on developing EFL students’ vocabulary acquisition. Journal of Language Teaching and Research, 9(2), 250-260. http://dx.doi.org/10.17507/jltr.0902.05 DOI: https://doi.org/10.17507/jltr.0902.05
Kholis, A. (2021). Elsa Speak app: automatic speech recognition (ASR) for supplementing English pronunciation skills. Pedagogy: Journal of English Language Teaching, 9(1), 01-14. https://doi.org/10.32332/joelt.v9i1.2723 DOI: https://doi.org/10.32332/joelt.v9i1.2723
Kim, H., & Kwon, Y. (2012). Exploring smartphone applications for effective mobile-assisted language learning. Multimedia-Assisted Language Learning, 15(1), 31-57. http://dx.doi.org/10.15702/mall.2012.15.1.31 DOI: https://doi.org/10.15702/mall.2012.15.1.31
Kukulska-Hulme, A. & Shield, L. (2008). An overview of mobile-assisted language learning: From content delivery to supported collaboration and interaction. ReCALL, 20(3), 271-289. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0958344008000335 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0958344008000335
Lai, C., & Zheng, D. (2018). Self-directed use of mobile devices for language learning beyond the classroom. ReCALL, 30(3), 299–318. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0958344017000258 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0958344017000258
Little, D. (2007). Language learner autonomy: Some fundamental considerations revisited. Innovation in Language Learning and Teaching, 1(1), 14–29. https://doi.org/10.2167/illt040.0 DOI: https://doi.org/10.2167/illt040.0
Maulya, R. (2023). Increasing Student’s Motivation in Learning English Using Duolingo. Jurnal Bima : Pusat Publikasi Ilmu Pendidikan Bahasa Dan Sastra, 1(3), 200–206. https://doi.org/10.61132/bima.v1i3.116 DOI: https://doi.org/10.61132/bima.v1i3.116
McLean, S., Hogg, N., & Rush, T. W. (2013). Vocabulary learning through an online computerized flashcard site. The JALT CALL Journal, 9(1), 79-98. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/335990871_McLean_S_Hogg_N_Rush_T_W_2013_Vocabulary_learning_through_an_online_computerized_flashcard_site_JALT_CALL_Journal_91_79-98 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29140/jaltcall.v9n1.j149
Melvina, M., & Julia, J. (2021). Learner Autonomy and English Proficiency of Indonesian Undergraduate Students. Cypriot Journal of Educational Sciences, 16(2), 803-818. http://dx.doi.org/10.18844/cjes.v16i2.5677 DOI: https://doi.org/10.18844/cjes.v16i2.5677
Metruk, R. (2020). Confronting the challenges of MALL: Distraction, cheating, and teacher readiness. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (iJET), 15(2), 4-14. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v15i02.11325 DOI: https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v15i02.11325
Miangah, T. M., & Nezarat, A. (2012). Mobile-Assisted Language Learning. International Journal of Distributed and Parallel Systems, 3(1), 309-319. https://doi.org/10.5121/ijdps.2012.3126 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5121/ijdps.2012.3126
Moura, Ana, S., Reis., Pedro., Cordeiro., & Natalia, M. (2020). Handbook of research on determining the reliability of online Assessment and distance learning. Italy: IGI Global. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-7998-4769-4
Mozes, G. S. (2019). Pre-Service EFL Teachers’ Perceptions Toward the Integration of Mall: Benefits and Challenges (Doctoral dissertation, Program Studi Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris FBS-UKSW).
Munday, P. (2016). The case for using DUOLINGO as part of the language classroom experience. Journal of Associacion Iberoamericana de Educacion Superior a Distancia, 19(1), 83-101. https://doi.org/10.5944/ried.19.1.14581 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5944/ried.19.1.14581
Nguyen, V. L. (2024). The The Impact of Online Resources via Personal Devices on English-Majored Students’ Learning Practices. International Journal of Language Instruction, 3(4), 110–118. https://doi.org/10.54855/ijli.24346 DOI: https://doi.org/10.54855/ijli.24346
O’Malley, C., Vavoula, G., Glew, J. P., Taylor, J., Sharples, M., Lefrere, P., Lonsdale, P., Naismith, L., & Waycott, J. (2005). Pedagogical Methodologies and Paradigms. Guidelines for Learning/Teaching/Tutoring in a Mobile Environment. MOBILearn project (D.4.1). Retrieved from https://hal.science/hal-00696244/document
Oz, H. (2015). An investigation of preservice English teachers’ perceptions of mobile assisted language learning. English Language Teaching, 8(2). 22-34. http://dx.doi.org/10.5539/elt.v8n2p22 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v8n2p22
Pérez-Paredes, P., Ordoñana Guillamón, C., & Aguado Jiménez, P. (2018). Language teachers’ perceptions on the use of OER language processing technologies in MALL. Computer Assisted Language Learning, 31(5-6), 522-545. https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2017.1418754 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2017.1418754
Pichugova, I. L., Stepura, S. N., & Pravosudov, M. (2016). Issues of promoting learner autonomy in EFL context. In SHS Web of Conferences. Vol. 28: Research Paradigms Transformation in Social Sciences (RPTSS 2015). - Les Ulis. (Vol. 282015, p. 1081). EDP Sciences. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/shsconf/20162801081 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1051/shsconf/20162801081
Pourhossein Gilakjani, A., & Sabouri, N. B. (2014). Role of Iranian EFL teachers about using Pronunciation Power software in the instruction of English pronunciation. English Language Teaching, 7(1), 139-148. http://dx.doi.org/10.5539/elt.v7n1p139 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v7n1p139
Rodríguez-Arancón, P., Arús, J., & Calle-Martínez, C. (2013). The use of current mobile applications in EFL. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 103, 1189-1196. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2013.10.446 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2013.10.446
Sato, T., Murase, F., & Burden, T. (2020). An empirical study on vocabulary recall and learner autonomy through mobile-assisted language learning in blended learning settings. CALICO Journal, 37(3), 254-276. http://dx.doi.org/10.1558/cj.40436 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1558/cj.40436
Shaojie, T., Abd Samad, A., & Ismail, L. (2022). The Effects of Visual Input and Text Types on the Listening Comprehension of EFL Students in China. Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences & Humanities, 30 (S1), 63-79. https://doi.org/10.47836/pjssh.30.S1.04 DOI: https://doi.org/10.47836/pjssh.30.S1.04
Sharples, M., Taylor, J., & Vavoula, G. (2005). Towards a theory of mobile learning. In H. van der Merwe & T. Brown(Eds.), Mobile Technology: The Future of Learning in Your Hands. mLearn 2005 Book of Abstracts, 4th WorldConference on mLearning, Cape Town, South Africa (pp. 58–67). Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/228346088_Towards_a_theory_of_mobile_learning#fullTextFileContent
Sole, R.C, Calic, J., and Neijmann, D. (2010). A social and self-reflective approach to MALL. ReCALL, 22, 39-52. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0958344009990188 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0958344009990188
Stockwell, G., & Hubbard, P. (2013). Some emerging principles for mobile-assisted language learning. Monterey, CA: The International Research Foundation for English Language Education. Retrieved from http://www.tirfonline.org/english-in-the-workforce/mobile-assisted-language-learning/
Teng, M., F. (2018). Autonomy, Agency, and Identity in Teaching and Learning English as a Foreign Language. Hongkong: Springer. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-13-0728-7
Teng, M. F., & He, F. (2015). An example of classroom practice using flashcards for young learners: Preliminary indications for promoting autonomy. Studies in Self-Access Learning Journal, 6(4), 382–398. http://dx.doi.org/10.37237/060405 DOI: https://doi.org/10.37237/060405
Thornton, P. and Houser, C. (2005) Using mobile phones in English education in Japan. Computer Assisted Learning, 21, 217-228. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2729.2005.00129.x DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2729.2005.00129.x
Tran, D. K., & Vu, T. K. C. (2024). Investigating Learners’ Perspectives on ELSA Speak Integration to Enhance Autonomy and Oral Language Proficiency in English Classes. Proceedings of the AsiaCALL International Conference, 6, 182–192. https://doi.org/10.54855/paic.24613 DOI: https://doi.org/10.54855/paic.24613
White, K. D. (2014). Duolingo: All the buzz. The Linguist, 53 (1), p. 17-18. Retrieved from https://www.academia.edu/9700219/Duolingo_All_the_buzz
Zaki, A. & Yunus, M. (2015). Potential of mobile learning in teaching of ESL academic writing. English Language Teaching, 8(6), 11-19. http://dx.doi.org/10.5539/elt.v8n6p11 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v8n6p11
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2024 Nguyen Thi Diem Thi
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Copyright
The copyright of all articles published in the Proceedings of the AsiaCALL International Conference (paic) remains with the Authors, i.e. Authors retain full ownership of their article. Permitted third-party reuse of the open access articles is defined by the applicable Creative Commons (CC) end-user license which is accepted by the Authors upon submission of their paper. All articles in the aicp are published under the CC BY-NC 4.0 license, meaning that end users can freely share an article (i.e. copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format) and adapt it (i.e. remix, transform and build upon the material) on the condition that proper attribution is given (i.e. appropriate credit, a link to the applicable license and an indication if any changes were made; all in such a way that does not suggest that the licensor endorses the user or the use) and the material is only used for non-commercial purposes.