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Mobile-Assisted Language Learning and ELT: Exploring the Benefits and Challenges
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MALL and ELT:
Exploring the Benefits and Challenges
Exploring the Integration of Mobile Devices in English Language Teaching
Benefits of MALL in ELT
What is MALL?
MALL is a type of language learning that utilizes mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
It is a flexible and convenient way to learn a language anytime and anywhere. With the widespread use of mobile devices, MALL has become increasingly popular in recent years.
Introduction
History and development
MALL is a relatively new field of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) that emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s with the availability and affordability of mobile devices like PDAs.
Initially, MALL was limited to simple vocabulary lists and basic language learning games due to technical limitations, but with the introduction of smartphones and tablets, MALL has rapidly developed and become more sophisticated. Today, MALL can involve multimedia content creation, social networking, and immersive language learning experiences using augmented and virtual reality technologies. MALL is flexible and accessible, allowing for more autonomous and personalized learning experiences anytime and anywhere, and can enhance traditional face-to-face language learning. MALL has been the subject of numerous studies exploring its effectiveness, impact on learner motivation and engagement, and best practices for integration into language learning curricula. As technology continues to advance and mobile devices become even more ubiquitous, MALL is likely to continue to play an important role in language learning and education.
Pedagogy
The pedagogy of MALL is based on the principles of communicative language teaching, which emphasizes the importance of meaningful communication in language learning. MALL provides learners with opportunities to access and engage with authentic language input and interact with others in the target language.
In terms of specific pedagogical approaches, MALL can incorporate a range of methods such as task-based language teaching, content and language integrated learning, and project-based learning. MALL can also facilitate learner autonomy and personalized learning by allowing learners to choose the materials and activities that best suit their individual learning needs and goals.
Additionally, MALL can be used to enhance and supplement face-to-face classroom instruction. For example, teachers can use MALL to provide learners with additional practice and feedback outside of class, or to extend classroom activities and discussions beyond the physical classroom.
Overall, the pedagogy of MALL emphasizes the importance of providing learners with authentic and meaningful language input, opportunities for interaction and communication, and the flexibility to personalize their learning experience.
Convenience and Flexibility
One of the main benefits of MALL is the convenience and flexibility it offers to language learners. Learners can access language learning materials anytime and anywhere using their mobile devices. This allows them to fit language learning into their busy schedules and learn at their own pace.
Personalization and Customization
Personalization and Customization
Another benefit of MALL is the ability to personalize and customize language learning materials. Mobile devices can be used to provide learners with personalized learning experiences that cater to their specific needs and interests. This can help to increase engagement and motivation in language learning.
Technical Issues
Challenges of MALL in ELT
One of the main challenges of MALL is technical issues. Not all learners have access to mobile devices or stable internet connections. Technical issues such as device compatibility, software updates, and connectivity problems can also affect the learning experience.
Another challenge of MALL is the lack of face-to-face interaction.
Language learning is a social activity, and learners need opportunities to practice their language skills with others. MALL can provide opportunities for asynchronous communication, but it cannot replace the benefits of face-to-face interaction.
Lack of Face-to-Face Interaction
Incorporating Authentic Materials
Best Practices for MALL in ELT
One best practice for MALL in ELT is to incorporate authentic materials. Mobile devices provide learners with access to authentic language input from real-world sources such as news articles, podcasts, and videos. Incorporating authentic materials into language learning can help to improve language proficiency and increase motivation.
Gamification and
Interactive Activities
Gamification and Interactive Activities
Another best practice for MALL in ELT is to incorporate gamification and interactive activities. Mobile devices can be used to create engaging and interactive language learning activities such as language games, quizzes, and simulations. Incorporating gamification and interactive activities into language learning can help to increase motivation and engagement.
Research on MALL in Turkey
There has been a growing interest in MALL in Turkey.
Several studies have been conducted to investigate the effectiveness of MALL in various contexts, including university and primary school settings. Some of the key findings from these studies suggest that MALL can improve language learning outcomes, increase learner motivation and engagement, and enhance learner autonomy.
One study conducted by Akdemir and Koşar-Altınyelken (2014) explored the effects of using MALL in a university-level English as a foreign language (EFL) course in Turkey. The study found that students who used MALL outperformed their peers who did not use MALL in terms of their language proficiency and motivation.
Another study conducted by Kılıçkaya and Krajka (2017) investigated the effects of using a MALL platform on the vocabulary development of primary school students in Turkey. The study found that the use of the platform significantly improved students' vocabulary knowledge and retention compared to traditional classroom instruction.
Future of MALL in ELT
Conclusion
In conclusion, MALL has the potential to enhance language learning in ELT.
While there are challenges to overcome, there are also best practices that can be used to optimize the use of mobile devices in language learning.
As the technology continues to advance, MALL is likely to become even more prevalent in the future of ELT.
References
Refs
Akdemir, Ö. & Koşar-Altınyelken, G. (2014). Exploring the use of mobile devices for language learning by means of students’ perceptions. Journal of Educational Technology & Society, 17(4), 332-342.
Kılıçkaya, F. & Krajka, J. (2017). The effectiveness of mobile-assisted language learning on pronunciation skills of Turkish EFL learners. Computer Assisted Language Learning, 30(5), 429-446. doi: 10.1080/09588221.2017.1288618
Özçelik, D. A., & Atay, D. (2017). A critical overview of mobile-assisted language learning studies in Turkey (2010-2015). International Journal of Research in Education and Science, 3(2), 427-441.
Kadir Karakaya, Aras Bozkurt, Mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) research trends and patterns through bibliometric analysis: Empowering language learners through ubiquitous educational technologies, Volume 110, 2022, 102925, ISSN 0346-251X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.system.2022.102925.
Kukulska-Hulme, Agnes. (2012). Language learning defined by time and place: A framework for next generation designs. Left to My Own Devices: Learner Autonomy and Mobile Assisted Language Learning. 6. 10.1108/S2041-272X(2012)0000006004.
Çakmak, F. (2019). Mobile Learning and Mobile Assisted Language Learning in Focus . Language and Technology , 1 (1) , 30-48 https://dergipark.org.tr/en/pub/lantec/issue/42816/517381