MALL

Mobile-assisted language learning

One of the most recent changes in English language teaching has been the use of mobile devices. The present article is an introduction to mobile-assisted language learning (MALL).

Mobile-assisted language learning, a successor of computer-assisted language learning, is a new phase in second and foreign language learning. I have chosen to focus on this aspect due to the increasing interest that students show in using mobile devices in order to practise languages and the relevance of these devices in today’s context.

MALL combines mobile learning with computer assisted language learning. It has gained popularity in the last few years due to our hectic mobile lifestyle and the widespread adoption of mobile telecommunications and computing devices with Internet connections. MALL offers to all learners an unprecedented range of learning possibilities that expand outside the limitations of traditional learning spaces.” MALL can be successfully used outside the classroom, as well as in the classroom and in resource-poor environments. The potential of MALL is enormous and by studying this field, we can learn how to make the most out of it. 

Some of principles are:

• The essential thing of mobile learning is not the device, but the mobility of the learner: we can learn across different contexts, variable locations, social contacts. 

• Limit multi-tasking and environmental distractions. Mobile environments, such as when commuting, by their nature are likely to be distracting, and multi-tasking is a natural part of that environment. 

• Push, but respect boundaries. Research has shown that the push mechanism has the potential to prompt learners to action, but at the same time, learners have ideas of when and how frequently they would like to receive these reminders.

• Strive to maintain equity. In a classroom or other formal language learning setting, important issues to be sensitive to include whether the learner has a mobile device, what device the learner has in terms of compatibility and functionality, how consistent device connectivity is, and what the expense is for using that device for the planned operation.

• Acknowledge and plan for accommodating language learner differences. As with other types of technology implementations, mobile learning should take into account a range of learning styles. 

  QR-code in language teaching / learning

Have you used QR Codes in the classroom yet?  Do you have technology and internet access?  QR Codes are simple to create, easy to implement, and open a world of independence for your students.

A QR Code is very similar to a bar code. QR stands for Quick Response.  The image consists of square dots in a unique configuration that provides information for the user. QR Codes can contain text, links (to web sites, videos, files), and much more.  QR Codes are safe to use in the classroom, so there’s no worry about leading your students astray.  Students only access what you tell them to via the QR Code.

That's some of the ideas using QR-code in learning:

• Links to multimedia, audio and video comments.
• Coding of tasks for group or individual work.
• Links to multimedia sources and resources containing additional information on a specific topic.
• Collections of comments, information blocks and active links to work on a project.
• Link to online content that provides access to digital libraries.

There’s a number of reasons to use QR Codes, but for me, the main reason is that it’s easy to give students web addresses and allows them to be more independent. 

QR Codes reduce student frustration of typing in a web address.  I know we can use a link shortener to create shorter links, but even those are difficult for a seven-year-old to type in accurately.  With a QR Code, you can save time (no typing) and students get it right the first time.  There’s no chance that students will mistype the web address.

And if you want to brush up your vocabulaty, you can click this link and see my list of the unusual words and expressions collected during this week.
https://quizlet.com/465209119/bunch-of-captivating-wordsexpressions-flash-cards/?new