The Use of Mobile Devices in Language Learning: A Survey on Chinese University Learners’ Experiences

Abstract

Despite the fact that mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) has been extensively discussed by language educators over the past five years, the adoption of mobile technologies, especially smartphones, in learning is still debatable for various stakeholders. One prominent stakeholder, is, of course, students. Students’ prior learning experiences regarding this matter should be seriously taken into account in today’s learner-centred educational paradigm. The study reported here attempts to uncover EFL students’ previous use of MALL. A questionnaire survey of 235 Chinese university students and a nine-student text-based group discussion formed the data for analysis. Results suggest that the students generally hold a positive attitude toward the use of mobile devices in their learning, and it is a fait accompli that they have engaged in MALL, both self- and teacher-initiated. Implications for language educators and learners are discussed based on the findings.