Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL)
By 2010 half of the planet's population will have access to the Internet through a mobile device. - Informa Telecoms & Media, 2007
As of 2024, approximately 86.26% of internet users globally will utilize mobile devices to access the internet. Mobile Internet connectivity has consistently increased in recent years, from 77.6% in 2018 to the current percentage. Except for tablets, 60% of all web traffic is generated by mobile devices. Regarding regional distribution, Asia comes second with 69.43% of web traffic, and Africa leads with 73.57%.Mobile devices are the most popular option for internet access worldwide, with 92.3% of internet users choosing to use a mobile phone over other devices like laptops, tablets, or desktops. This extensive use of mobile devices is primarily due to their availability and convenience.
Reference: OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT [Large language model]. https://chatgpt.com.
Mobile Phones and Smartphones
Synonyms: mobile, cell phone, cellular phone, smartphone, hand phone, wireless.
Essential features of mobile phones: (1) voice function /telephone; (2) Internet access, e-mail; (3) SMS text messaging; (4) camera; (5) video recorder.
Apple and Samsung are the world's largest manufacturers of smartphones and tablets.
What is MALL
Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL) or mobile learning is a language teaching methodology which can effectively integrate listening, reading and speaking activities. It can also develop academic study, critical thinking and research skills. MALL is ideal not only for full time college students but also for travelers and those who want to have fun by learning English. Smartphone is is superior to a computer in portability, a very much valued feature by all English language learners.
Communicative Mobile English Learning
Professionally developed materials can be delivered through mobile phones to improve English language learners' vocabulary acquisition and critical thinking skills. Students can read the definitions of words, sentences, improve pronunciation skills, and develop their thinking skills through quizzes. Useful MALL software as well as references are available online.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Mobile learning, also known as mobile-assisted language learning (MALL), is an innovative method of teaching languages that uses tablets, smartphones, and other portable electronics to improve the quality of instruction. This approach encourages the development of critical thinking, academic study, and research abilities in addition to supporting the integration of speaking, reading, and listening activities. Because of its portability—which learners strongly value for its flexibility in enabling them to engage in language learning anytime and anywhere—MALL is especially helpful. (Hsieh, 2024).
Mobile technologies in MALL offer personalized, context-sensitive, and location-aware learning opportunities, making it ideal for full-time college students, travelers, and those learning for leisure. Mobile devices' accessibility and multifunctionality enable learners to participate in both self-paced and collaborative learning activities, thus expanding the traditional boundaries of language education (Li, R., Zou, D., & Vazquez-Calvo, B., 2023).
While MALL offers many advantages, it encounters hurdles like maintaining learner interest and successfully incorporating technology into language education programs. It is essential to tackle these challenges with enhanced strategies and innovative educational approaches. (Chen Wang, M. L., 2024).
References
Chen Wang, M. L. (2024). Mobile mavericks: A twenty-year retrospective on advancements and challenges in language learning. Global Journal of Education and Allied Research, 15(3), 36–42.
Hsieh, C.-N. (2024). Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL). In J. I. Liontas (Ed.), The TESOL Encyclopedia of English Language Teaching (pp. 1-7).
John Wiley & Sons, Inc.Li, R., Zou, D., & Vazquez-Calvo, B. (2023). Mobile assisted language learning: Developments, affordances, and solutions. Frontiers in Psychology, 14.
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