Systematising the Field of Mobile Assisted Language Learning

2013 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 72-90 ◽  
Author(s):  
Olga Viberg ◽  
Åke Grönlund
Keyword(s):  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Mobile Learning ◽  
Experimental Studies ◽  
Learning Systems ◽  
Linguistic Knowledge ◽  
Learning Theories ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Specific Reference ◽  
Theoretical Approaches

This study provides a systematic review of mobile assisted language (MALL) research within the specific area of second language acquisition (SLA) during the period of 2005-2012 in terms of research approaches, theories and methods, technology, and the linguistic knowledge and skills’ results. The findings show a shift from the prevailing SMS-based language learning in 2005-2008 towards the use of more advanced multimedia and intelligent learning systems in the last years. Many highly cited studies focus on design of mobile language learning systems and experimental evaluation of their effectiveness. Studies often draw on mature pedagogic models and methods. However, descriptive and small-scale experimental studies dominate. In terms of theoretical approaches and frameworks, there is a lack of specific reference to mobile learning conceptual and theoretical models, which makes it difficult to distinguish any specific mobile learning theories from other learning theories. Research has so far paid most attention to learners’ vocabulary acquisition.

CURRENT APPROACHES TO RESEARCHING SECOND LANGUAGE LEARNER PROCESSES

2005 ◽  
Vol 25 ◽  
pp. 98-111 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gillian Wigglesworth
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Cognitive Processes ◽  
Language Learner ◽  
Linguistic Knowledge ◽  
Thought Processes ◽  
Second Language Learner ◽  
Theoretical Approaches

Language learning is a complex set of processes that largely take place in the learner's head. The extent to which learners consciously focus on specific aspects of language, the degree to which they notice particular features of language, and how this is done has been the object of considerable debate in different theoretical approaches to second language acquisition. For researchers in second language acquisition, one dilemma is how to find out what learners notice, and how, if at all, they incorporate this into their developing linguistic knowledge. Here, I discuss three approaches to researching learner cognitive processes that can be used to identify the knowledge that learners have about their second language, and obtain some insights into the cognitive processes of learners. These approaches have the potential to contribute to our understanding of how learners learn a second language, and, therefore, how this task may be facilitated. The first approach attempts to tap directly into the learner's thought through the use of think-aloud protocols, whereas the second involves having learners engage with activities that encourage them to talk aloud, thus providing insights into their thought processes. The third approach uses planning effects on task performance to investigate how learners monitor their language.

scholarly journals Modeling Second-Language Learning from a Psychological Perspective

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alexander Rich ◽  
Pamela Joy Osborn Popp ◽  
David Halpern ◽  
Anselm Rothe ◽  
Todd Matthew Gureckis
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Second Language Learning ◽  
Educational Software ◽  
Psychological Theory ◽  
Psychological Research ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Boosted Decision Trees ◽  
New Perspective

Psychological research on learning and memory has tended to emphasize small-scale laboratory studies. However, large datasets of people using educational software provide opportunities to explore these issues from a new perspective. In this paper we describe our approach to the Duolingo Second Language Acquisition Modeling (SLAM) competition which was run in early 2018. We used a well-known class of algorithms (gradient boosted decision trees), with features partially informed by theories from the psychological literature. After detailing our modeling approach and a number of supplementary simulations, we reflect on the degree to which psychological theory aided the model, and the potential for cognitive science and predictive modeling competitions to gain from each other.

scholarly journals Exploring Facilitative and Debilitative Spaces: A Shift in Focus from Classrooms to Learning Systems

2019 ◽  
pp. 117-125
Author(s):  
Nathan Thomas
Keyword(s):  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Formal Education ◽  
Learning Systems ◽  
Short Paper ◽  
Learning Spaces ◽  
Holistic View ◽  
Instructed Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Work Up ◽  
Relevant Work

Physical classrooms are often overlooked in educational research. While teachers, students, materials, and methodologies have all been the foci of studies for many years, research into the spaces in which instructed second language acquisition takes place is, for the most part, absent in the literature. In Thomas (2018a, 2018b), I argued that exploring these spaces and the affordances they provide is a necessary endeavor if we are to offer a holistic view of learning. It should be noted that my discussion of learning spaces refers to formal education settings—classrooms—and not self-access centers. However, I believe that relevant work in the field of self-access learning can indeed inform classroom design in instructed settings. Therefore, I use this work to support my discussion. As a work-in-progress report, this short paper will first describe my work up until this point, and second, explain how my ideas about learning spaces have transformed over time. I will discuss a new direction in which this and other studies may take. This new direction involves viewing classroom spaces as complex language learning systems and harnessing successful strategies students use within these systems to allow learning to take place. This focus on learning spaces as complete systems, as opposed to just their physical characteristics, has implications for how students can be better prepared to learn beyond the classroom.

Do second language learners acquire restrictive relative clauses on the basis of relational or configurational information? The acquisition of French subject, direct object and genitive restrictive relative clauses by second language learners

1989 ◽  
Vol 5 (2) ◽  
pp. 156-188 ◽  
Author(s):  
Roger Hawkins
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Relative Clauses ◽  
Second Language Learners ◽  
Linguistic Knowledge ◽  
Linear Ordering ◽  
Restrictive Relative Clauses ◽  
The Way

Much of the work on the second language acquisition of restrictive relative clauses has made reference to the similarities between learners' order of diffi culty and Keenan and Comrie's (1977) typologically determined noun phrase accessibility hierarchy for relativisation (AH). There has been little considera tion, however, of whether this 'theory of markedness' (for that is the implica tion of citing the AH in the context of second language learning) actually determines the way that second language learners develop rules for restrictive relative clauses. The present study examines the way that learners of L2 French construct rules for French relativiser morphology from this perspective. It is found that there is no evidence to support the view that learners make use of a theory of markedness like the AH in constructing such rules. Rather, learners appear to construct rules on the basis of the linear ordering of the constituents of restrictive relative clauses in surface configurations. From the evidence it is suggested that 'markedness' in the development of L2 restrictive relative clauses is not a feature of the grammatical component of learners' linguistic knowledge, but is a feature of their L2 processing capacity.

scholarly journals Impacts of mobile technologies, systems and resources on language learning: A systematic review of selected journal publications from 2007-2016

2018 ◽  
pp. 375-388 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Mobile Devices ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
Mobile Learning ◽  
Learning Systems ◽  
Mobile Technologies ◽  
Personal Digital Assistants ◽  
Tablet Pcs ◽  
Mobile Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Future Work

This study examined the mobile-assisted language learning studies published from 2007 to 2016 in selected journals from the aspects of adopted mobile devices, mobile learning systems/resources, and the benefits and challenges of utilizing mobile devices or learning systems/resources. The results revealed that the traditional mobile devices (e.g., Personal Digital Assistants, PDAs) and the current popular mobile devices (e.g., smartphones and tablet PCs) were frequently adopted for language learning in different time periods, while wearable devices have not been adopted by any language learning research so far. In addition, most of the studies used researcher-developed learning systems/resources, while the use of educational affordances of free applications or resources needs to be promoted. Furthermore, the abundant benefits of using mobile devices or mobile learning systems/resources for language acquisition were found in many studies, such as providing substantial chances for learning, and providing or building authentic environments for learners’ meaningful knowledge construction; on the other hand, the studies also reported several challenges (e.g., insufficient practice time and the lack of effective learning strategies) to be overcome in the future. Finally, several suggestions are provided for researchers or practitioners to conduct their future work.

scholarly journals A Review of Language Learning Strategy Research

2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (5) ◽  
pp. 522
Author(s):  
Yanfei Su
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Individual Differences ◽  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Learning Strategy ◽  
Mainland China ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Strategy Research ◽  
Language Learning Strategy

Language learning strategy, a crucial variable of individual differences in second language acquisition (SLA), has been a fiercely discussed topic since 1970s, attracting a large number of researchers and teachers who have already made great achievements. This article aims to conduct a small-scale review of studies concerning language learning strategy, finding that studies in this respect were done mainly from perspectives of definition, identification and classification, usage and assessment and instruction of language learning strategy, and factors which exert influences on it. It is plausible to say that research on this issue is comparatively comprehensive, appreciating wide coverage and great achievements, but certain points are still in controversy. Although there are many related studies, rare studies were devoted to language learning strategy under the context of learners in mainland China. Subsequently, implications for further research and pedagogy in terms of language learning strategy are discussed.

scholarly journals Language Tasks and Mobile Technologies: A Paradigm Shift in Designing Task-Based CALL for Young Language Learners / Activités langagières et technologies mobiles : un changement de paradigme dans la conception des tâches en apprentissage des langues

2014 ◽  
Vol 40 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Martine Pellerin
Keyword(s):  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Collaborative Action Research ◽  
Mobile Technologies ◽  
French Immersion ◽  
Learning Theories ◽  
Teachers And Students ◽  
Language Classrooms ◽  
Learning Principles

This article examines how the use of mobile technologies (iPods and tablets) in language classrooms contributes to redesigning task-based approaches for young language learners. The article is based on a collaborative action research (CAR) project in Early French Immersion classrooms in the province of Alberta, Canada. The data collection included digital ethnographic observation in the classrooms, students’ artifacts, and interviews with teachers and students. The findings outlined how the use of mobile technologies such as iPods and tablets contributes to redesigning language tasks and activities by helping young learners to create their own learning environment and meaningful language tasks, as well as self-assess and regulate their language learning process. The research also provides evidence of how the use of mobile technologies contributes to redesigning task-based approaches for young language learners that reflect learning principles based on emergent learning theories as well as Vygotskian sociocultural theories in second language acquisition (SLA). Activités langagières et technologies mobiles : un changement de paradigme dans la conception des tâches en apprentissage des langues assisté par ordinateur pour jeunes apprenants Cet article étudie la façon dont l'utilisation des technologies mobiles (iPods et tablettes) dans les classes de langue contribue à la refonte des approches basées sur des tâches pour les jeunes apprenants. L'article se fonde sur un projet de collaboration recherche-action (CRA) dans les classes initiales d'immersion en français dans la province de l'Alberta, au Canada. La collecte de données comprenait l'observation ethnographique numérique dans les salles de classe, les artefacts des élèves, et des entrevues avec les enseignants et les étudiants. Les résultats ont montré comment l'utilisation des technologies mobiles telles que les iPods et tablettes contribue à la refonte des tâches et des activités langagières en aidant les jeunes apprenants à créer leur propre environnement d'apprentissage et des tâches langagières pertinentes, à s'autoévaluer et à réguler leur processus d'apprentissage linguistique. La recherche met aussi en évidence la façon dont l'utilisation des technologies mobiles contribue au remodelage d’approches basées sur les tâches qui reflètent les principes d'apprentissage fondés sur de nouvelles théories d'apprentissage ainsi que sur les théories socioculturelles de Vygotsky sur l’acquisition d’une seconde langue.

Derivationele Morfologie In Tweede-Taalverwerving

1991 ◽  
Vol 39 ◽  
pp. 83-92
Author(s):  
Wander Lowie
Keyword(s):  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Empirical Investigation ◽  
Word Formation ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Linguistic Knowledge ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Linguistic Model ◽  
Primary Determinant ◽  
Complex Words ◽  
Comparative Description

This article deals with the influence of a learner's native language in the acquisition of L2 derivational morphology. Do learners acquire morphologically complex words like 'learnable' and 'explanation' as unanalysed units or do they acquire and store the stems ('learn'; 'explain') and generate/analyse these forms by using word formation rules? A linguistic model of the lexicon which enables both direct retrieval and generation/analysis on the basis of word formation rules is applied to second language acquisition by distinguishing formal and semantic/syntactic rules. Based on a comparative description of English and Dutch in these terms, a small scale empirical investigation was set out. The results of this research indicate that the primary determinant of the analysability of morphologically complex words is transparency, which is defined from the learner's point of view and is dependent on all prior linguistic knowledge of the learner, including L1. Furthermore, the research indicates that semantic/syntactic similarities between the languages have a greater facilitating effect than formal similarities.

A Review of Research on the Application of Digital Games in Foreign Language Education

2022 ◽  
pp. 1948-1971
Author(s):  
Mark Peterson ◽  
Jeremy White ◽  
Maryam Sadat Mirzaei ◽  
Qiao Wang
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Experimental Studies ◽  
Language Education ◽  
Digital Games ◽  
Role Playing ◽  
Target Language ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Role Playing Games

The use of digital games represents an expanding domain in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) research. This chapter reviews the findings of 26 learner-based studies in this area that are informed by cognitive and social accounts of SLA. The analysis shows that massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) are the most frequently investigated game type and the majority of studies involved EFL learners in higher education. Mixed methods were the most frequent research tool utilized by researchers. Limitations of current research include the preponderance of small-scale experimental studies that investigated only a limited number of factors. Although the research is not conclusive, findings indicate that game play facilitates collaboration, the production of target language output, vocabulary learning, and reduces the influence of factors that inhibit learning. This chapter concludes by identifying promising areas for future research.

scholarly journals A Review of Socio-Cultural Theory

SIASAT ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (3) ◽  
pp. 23-31
Author(s):  
Mahbobeh Rahmatirad
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Cultural Theory ◽  
Universal Grammar ◽  
Learning Processes ◽  
Learning Theories ◽  
Mental Function ◽  
Language Research ◽  
The Impact

The purpose of this study is to explore Vygotsky’s contribution to the socio-cultural theory in the field of education in general. Socio-Cultural Theory, based on Vygotskian thought, is a theory about the development of human cognitive and higher mental function. The theory specially emphasizes the integration of social, cultural and biological elements in learning processes and stresses the socio-cultural circumstances’ central role in human’s cognitive development. The study aims to elaborate the impact of social-cultural theory in the leaning. The study also reviews implications and applications of socio-cultural theory in second language acquisition. Moreover, this study also critiques the strong points and weakness points of this theory. There are a number of language learning theories which are introduced by researchers in second language research. These theories are based on research and observation in the field of language learning. B. F Skinner’s theory of behaviorism, Chomsky’s theory of Universal Grammar, Krashen’s five Hypotheses, connectionism and Vygotsky’s socio-cultural theory have changed people’ mind of language learning.

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