An overview of mobile assisted language learning: From content delivery to supported collaboration and interaction

TLDR

Mobile learning is rapidly evolving, driven by learners’ personal needs and mobility, and is increasingly seen as a platform for social contact and collaborative language learning. This review examines how mobile devices are used to support social contact and collaborative learning in language learning, and reflects on current developments and future directions. The study focuses on mobile-supported speaking and listening practice, exploring synchronous and asynchronous interaction opportunities in online and distance learning contexts.

Abstract

Abstract Mobile learning is undergoing rapid evolution. While early generations of mobile learning tended to propose activities that were carefully crafted by educators and technologists, learners are increasingly motivated by their personal learning needs, including those arising from greater mobility and frequent travel. At the same time, it is often argued that mobile devices are particularly suited to supporting social contacts and collaborative learning - claims that have obvious relevance for language learning. A review of publications reporting mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) was undertaken to discover how far mobile devices are being used to support social contact and collaborative learning. In particular, we were interested in speaking and listening practice and in the possibilities for both synchronous and asynchronous interaction in the context of online and distance learning. We reflect on how mobile language learning has developed to date and suggest directions for the future.