Bridging the Language Gap in STEM Education: Design, Development, and Evaluation of ME4STEM (Mobile English for STEM) Module
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Keywords

design
English
mobile
Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM)
theoretical
vocabulary

How to Cite

Bridging the Language Gap in STEM Education: Design, Development, and Evaluation of ME4STEM (Mobile English for STEM) Module. (2025). Computer-Assisted Language Learning Electronic Journal, 26(4), 123-150. https://doi.org/10.54855/callej.252647

Abstract

Goal 4 in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) states that quality education could benefit Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) related fields, which are currently in high demand. However, language barrier has become an issue in the workplace, highlighting a need to enhance the English competency of STEM learners through English for Specific Purposes (ESP). Despite this, many ESP studies only focus on the communicative outcomes of ESP learning, leaving a theoretical gap in the field. Therefore, this paper aims to design a mobile module, Mobile English for STEM (ME4STEM), for STEM learners to enhance their English vocabulary competency based on various learning theories. This study employed Design and Development Research (DDR) Type 1, with content analysis used to determine words to be included in the module. The design stage involves designing the learning objectives, components, materials, flowchart and storyboard based on the needs analysis and ESP functional language, incorporating various learning theories, which are Mastery Learning, Cognitive Constructivism, Social Constructivism Theory, Problem-Based Learning and Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning. This study implied that theoretical foundations are vital in designing and developing a mobile app. Integrating multiple learning theories in the design and development of a mobile application gives more learning opportunities and ensures that the mobile app is holistic and feasible to be sustained. Future research can look into the evaluation of the mobile module.

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