The efficiency of mobile assisted language learning (Mall) in vocabulary learning

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Today, it has become quite easy for people to access information. This has deeply influenced the education world, too. Firstly, computer aided learning systems were developed. With the proliferation of mobile phones, mobile learning has started to spread rapidly. Mobile learning, which offers self-learning opportunities without time and space constraints, now has become one of the most popular learning tools. For this reason, learning vocabulary in a foreign language through mobile applications has been examined as a research area. A semi-experimental study was carried out to test the effectiveness of Memrise vocabulary learning application. Control and experimental groups were formed from students studying in English preparatory classes of a public university in İstanbul. In addition to regular classes, the experimental group received Memrise vocabulary learning application. Students in both groups were inquired about the target words in a pretest and posttest before and after each unit. When the results of the control group inquired, the study indicated that there was not a significant difference between the posttest and pretest results of the control group. In the experimental group, on the other hand, majority of the students answered most of the vocabulary correctly in the post-tests, and thus, there was a significant difference between pretest and posttest results revealing the positive effects of the Memrise application. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM The use of mobile tools in educational practices and mobile learning applications have gained significance in modern education and language education classrooms with the increasing technological advancements. It is important to study the influence of mobile learning applications in EFL learning, especially its impact on vocabulary learning, because vocabulary learning forms the cornerstone of language learning. In this study, an experimental and a control group were formed to study the effect of mobile applications on vocabulary learning through the use of Memrise mobile application. English preparatory school students of a public university constituted the participants of the study. Students were at the intermediate level and studied speak out intermediate level course book. Students were within the age range of 18-21. The findings of this research on vocabulary learning will shed light on Memrise application’s effect in vocabulary learning outcomes. The study can also provide implications about engaging in more effective language teaching practices, especially vocabulary learning in light of changing technologies. Mobile learning systems allow new possibilities for more effective vocabulary learning. According to Ally (2009), mobile technology provides quick and instant access to any educational material and thus facilitates autonomous learning. Mobile learning makes learning easier, faster and more fun. Boundaries of classroom is stretched so that learning in different contexts is possible. Thus, constant exposure to language through mobile applications builds on previous learning.