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Mobile Assisted Language Learning:
A Literature Review
Olga Viberg
Örebro University Business School,
Örebro, Sweden
ovi@du.se
Åke Grönlund
Örebro University Business School,
Örebro, Sweden
ake.gronlund@oru.se
ABSTRACT
Mobile assisted language learning (MALL) is a subarea of the growing field of mobile learning (mLearning) research
which increasingly attracts the attention of scholars. This study provides a systematic review of MALL research within
the specific area of second language acquisition during the period 2007 - 2012 in terms of research approaches, methods,
theories and models, as well as results in the form of linguistic knowledge and skills. The findings show that studies of
mobile technology use in different aspects of language learning support the hypothesis that mobile technology can
enhance learners’ second language acquisition. However, most of the reviewed studies are experimental, small-scale, and
conducted within a short period of time. There is also a lack of cumulative research; most theories and concepts are used
only in one or a few papers. This raises the issue of the reliability of findings over time, across changing technologies,
and in terms of scalability. In terms of gained linguistic knowledge and skills, attention is primarily on learners’
vocabulary acquisition, listening and speaking skills, and language acquisition in more general terms.
Author Keywords
Mobile assisted language learning, MALL, mobile learning, second language acquisition, mobile technology
INTRODUCTION
Mobile technologies are rapidly attracting new users, providing increasing capacity, and allowing more sophisticated use.
This influences cultural practices and enables new contexts for learning (Pachler et al., 2010). The integration of such
technologies into teaching and learning has been more gradual, as educators need to understand how they can be
effectively used to support various kinds of learning (Kukulska-Hulme & Shield, 2008) and develop effective methods
and materials for mobile assisted language learning (MALL), a specialization of mobile learning (mLearning). The main
characteristics of mobile learning, such as permanency, accessibility, immediacy, interactivity, situating of instructional
activities, are summarized and introduced by Ogata & Yano (2005). While definitions differ, it is obvious that not only
technology but also people can be mobile. For the purpose of this paper we define mLearning as a “process of coming to
know through conversations across multiple contexts among people and personal interactive technologies” (Sharples et
al., 2007, 225) with a focus on contexts. The technology to assist in this process includes any kind of handheld mobile
devices such as cell phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), smartphones, pads, pods, etc. Laptops are today typically
not considered mobile in this context, even though they obviously are to some extent. Ogata et al. (2010) state:
“computer assisted mobile learning uses lightweight devices such as personal digital assistant (PDA), cellular mobile
phones, and so on” (p.8). In the lack of a strict definition, for the purpose of this paper we refer to anything that can be
used when walking around.
As mobile technologies provide many advantages: flexibility, low cost, small size and user-friendliness, researchers are
exploring how to use mobile technology to support language learning (Huang et al., 2012). However, there are also
obvious disadvantages, such as small screen size, limited presentation of graphics (Albers & Kim, 2001), and dependence
on networks that may not always provide very high transmission capacity and may be subject to disturbances of many
kinds. Despite such shortcomings Thornton and Houser (2005) show that mobile devices can indeed be effective tools for
delivering language learning materials to the students. Kukulska-Hulme & Shield (2008) offer a seminal overview of
MALL asking whether and how mobile devices support collaborative practice in speaking and listening. The study
presented the two main approaches to MALL, content-related and design-related studies. These approaches still dominate
in the literature, although the focus is shifting towards design-oriented studies when creating authentic and/or social
mobile learning environments (Wong & Looi, 2011).
This review presents an extensive coverage of empirical research, as published in English during the period 2007-2012,
concerning the use and effectiveness of MALL in second and foreign language (L2) education with a focus on the
methodological, theoretical and linguistic knowledge trends. What theories, research approaches and methods are used
when analyzing MALL? Which aspects of MALL are being researched? What are the results so far, and what research
gaps are there?
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METHOD
The review follows the Webster and Watson (2002) method combining keyword searching and examination of leading
journals. First, a set of keywords was identified. Primarily the keywords mobile learning together with (AND) language
learning were used. Further, different combinations of such keywords as handheld device, cell phone, mobile phone,
PDA, smartphone, mobile, application together with language learning were used. To ensure reliability, search strategies
were refined by examining the retrieved articles’ abstracts. To further enhance reliability, manual searches were carried
out in key journals, including Computer Assisted Language Learning Journal, Computers and Education, Journal of
Computer Assisted Learning, Educational Technology and Society and Language Learning and Technology. A further
search technique was “snowballing”, i.e. following up references in the identified papers and identifying most cited
papers. The selection of articles to be included in the review was based on the inclusion criteria presented below. Several
international conference papers (such conferences as EUROCALL (European Computer Assisted Language Learning),
International Conference on Wireless, Mobile, and Ubiquitous Technologies in Education, mLearn etc.) are also included
due to the fact that many of the results of the ongoing projects have not been published yet in peer-reviewed journals as
the field of mobile learning with the specific reference to language learning is still in its infancy (Kukulska-Hulme &
Shield, 2008).
Papers included were those covering: effects of the use of mobile technology within foreign and second language
learning, learners use of technology and attitudes and/or intentions, empirical studies, overview, and/or summary of
MALL and CALL (with a focus on the use of mobile technology) research, mobile technology in its relation to language
learning within educational settings, published in peer-review journals and conference proceedings in the period 2007 -
2012, effects of technology use on the acquisition of linguistic knowledge and skills (reading, vocabulary learning,
writing etc.).
All the identified articles and conference contributions were analyzed in order to assess the papers’ quality in terms of the
applied theory, approach, method, and themes, using the Grönlund & Andersson (2006) model. After retrieving the
relevant literature, the abstracts and the findings/conclusions of the articles were examined. Secondly, approach and
method was examined so as to assess the credibility of the claims in the papers. Thirdly the main concepts were identified
and organized in an author-centric matrix suggested by Webster and Watson (2002). Finally, the papers were examined
to identify the language skills’ focus when using mobile technologies in second language and foreign learning and
teaching. As most of the reviewed articles were retrieved from highly ranked and cited journals, the methods and
approaches employed could be trusted for their quality and credibility. Initially 89 papers were found. 54 of them
fulfilled the selection criteria and are thus included. The categories for the analysis of research type and method used
were adapted from Grönlund and Andersson (2006).
FINDINGS
Research Approach
In our sample most research was descriptive (44 %), presenting various cases where technical appliances were used. We
found only one theory generating study and no theory testing one (Table 1). Theories were used in 46 % of the papers,
but mainly to illustrate or interpret findings. We found only one theory specifically designed to cover the MALL field
(Sharples et al., 2007). Noticeably, several descriptive studies also include elements of philosophical or theoretical
concepts or models.
Descriptive
Describes a phenomenon in its appearance without any use of theory.
24
44%
Philosophical
Reflects upon a phenomenon without data and any use of theory.
2
4%
Theoretical
Reflects on a phenomenon based on some theory but without empirical
data
2
4%
Theory use
Applies a theory/theories & models as a framework for the conducted
study
25
46%
Theory generating
Attempts to analyze quantitative/qualitative data in a systematic
manner with the use of theory with a purpose of (taking steps towards)
theory building
1
2%
Theory testing
Attempt to test a theory using quantitative or qualitative data in
systematic manner, i.e. just strict theory testing.
0
0%
Total
54
100%
Table 1. Research approach
Method
The most commonly applied method is experiment, with 47 % of the papers (Table 2). Second most common are
interpretive studies (28 %). This indicates that the MALL field is in an emerging phase, still under development and in
need of more solid empirical evidence in order to underpin theoretical conclusions about how mobile technologies can
assist language learning and in order to build theoretical models that are specific to this scientific field.
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A significant number of studies illustrate for MALL specially designed intelligent systems for individuals’ use when
practicing different language skills (Chang & Hsu, 2011; Chen & Chung, 2008; Chen & Li, 2010; Huang et al., 2012;
Kaneko et al., 2008 etc.), such as use of Artificial Intelligence methods and technologies. In experiments, use of such
systems is frequently compared to a ‘traditional’ way of teaching and learning a language in educational settings,
attempting to show results of the developed software’s use on, among others, individuals’ second language vocabulary
acquisition, listening and/or speaking skills etc. Thus most of these studies present explorative and comparative
knowledge. Additionally when exploring learners’ intentions and attitudes towards the use of the proposed systems and
applications, evaluative knowledge is offered.
Method
Description
Number of
articles
%
Argument
Logical argument but not based in any particular theory or
relating explicitly or by clear implication to any theory.
2
4%
Case story
Tells about a case but as opposed to a case study there is no
strict data collection method.
4
6%
Ethnography
Any attempt to understand actions by systematic observation
and interpretation.
0
0%
Experiment
Field experiments included.
25
47%
Grounded Theory
1
2%
Interpretative
Any kind of more strictly performed data collection than a
“case story” but not necessarily strictly explained or spelled-
out method for interpretation. Case study belongs here but
also more limited studies where qualitative and quantitative
data is used.
15
28%
Literature study
Only documents used (scientific, policy documents etc.). Not
necessarily strict method or even explicitly labeled as
literature study
1
2%
Product description
IT product, method or similar, described by the manufacturer
or someone else.
4
6%
Survey
This covers also qualitative overviews of several documents
and cases.
1
2%
Unclear
Even the widely defined categories above fail to capture the
method.
1
2%
Total
54
100%
Table 2. Method
Theories
The theories and models applied in the reviewed literature most often originate from previously established theories of
learning, such as constructivism and situated learning theory. The experiments in the reviewed papers are hence typically
applied on mature pedagogy. There are, however, also a few studies discussing mobile learning or Mobile Learning
Theory or even Modern Mobile Learning Theory in attempts to formulate field-specific theory. There are also more
general theories used, such as Activity Theory and Sociocultural Theory. Some theories originate from psychology, such
as Cognitive Load Theory and Dual Coding Theory, and some relate directly to technology use, e.g. the commonly used
Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Many papers, however, do not exhibit any clear theoretical background.
Research Content
Analyzing the research topics of the papers, three major categories were found: ‘technological concepts of learning’ (e.g.
Mobile-device supported peer-assisted learning), ‘technology-centered concepts’ (e.g. SMS –based learning), and
‘learning environment’ with two subgroups: ‘theoretical development’ (e.g. Contextualized meaning making) and
‘practical aspects’ (e.g. Usefulness). Table 4 provides a complete list and shows that most specific concepts, in particular
those concerned with theory, are used only in one or very few papers.
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Only general concepts like MALL are widely
shared. This means there is little cumulative research.
Thematic
categories
Examples
Concepts
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References in the table are available from the author. Excluded due to lack of space.
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Technological Concepts of Learning
Anderson et al. (2008)
Language learning outside the classroom
Chen & Li (2010)
Context-aware ubiquitous learning
Chen & Chung (2008); Hsu et al. (2008); de Jong et al. (2010);
Cheng et al. (2010); Oberg & Daniels (2012); Petersen et al.
(2011); Sandberg et al. (2011); Huang & Sun (2008); Hwang &
Chen (2011); Abdous et al. (2012)
Mobile learning
Chang & Hsu (2011)
CALL
Comas-Quinn et al. (2009)
Constructivism, situated learning, informal learning
de Jong et al. (2010); Hsieh et al. (2010); Petersen et al.(2011)
Situated learning
de Jong et al. (2010)
Knowledge gain
Demouy & Kukulska-Hulme (2009)
Authentic learning
Fotouhi-Ghazvini (2009)
Game-based learning
Hsu (2012)
MALL from cross-cultural perspective, constuctivism
Huang et al. (2012); Liu (2009); Chen & Li (2010); Cheng et al.
(2010); Fallahkhair et al.(2007)
Ubiquitous learning
Kukulska-Hulme & Shield (2008); Kukulska-Hulme (2009);
Miangah & Nezarat (2012); Nah (2011); Wong et al. (2010);
Hsieh et al. (2010)
MALL
Kukulska-Hulme (2010)
Learner-led innovation
Lan et al. (2007)
Mobile-device supported peer-assisted learning
Li et al. (2010)
Adaptive learning
Liu et al. (2008)
Communicative mobile English learning
Liu (2009), Cheng et al. (2010)
Collaborative learning
Liu (2009)
Immersive learning
Oberg & Daniels (2012)
Self-pace instruction
Sandberg et al. (2011)
CALL, informal learning, game-based learning
Stockwell (2007, 2008)
CALL
Wong & Looi (2010)
Seamless language learning design
Technology-Centered Concepts
Abdous et al. (2009, 2012); Ducate & Lomicka (2009); Rosell-
Aquilar (2007)
Podcasting
Cavus & Ibrahim (2008, 2009); Katz & Yablon (2011); Lu
(2008); Kennedy & Levy (2008); Saran et al. (2008)
SMS –based learning
Chang & Hsu (2011); Chen & Chung (2008);Chen & Li (2010);
Huang et al. (2012); Kaneko et al. (2008); Petersen &
Markiewicz (2008); Stockwell (2007, 2010); Cheng et al.
(2010); Sandberg et al. (2011)
Usage of multimedia/hypermedia intelligent systems
Cheng et al. (2010)
Exchange of ideas through presentations
Comas-Quinn et al. (2009); Hsu et al. (2009)
Mobile blogs
Godwin-Jones (2011); Chang & Hsu (2011); Chen & Chung
(2008); Chen & Li (2010); Fallahkhair et al. (2007); Huang et al.
(2012); Liu (2009); Petersen & Markiewicz (2008); Petersen et
al. (2011); Sandberg et al.(2011); Stockwell (2007, 2008, 2010);
Huang et al. (2012)
Mobile applications for language learning
Gromik (2012), Nah (2011); Fallahkhair et al. (2007)
Learning with a cell phone
Fallahkhair et al.(2007)
Language learning support via iTV and cell phones
Jian et al. (2009)
Electronic pocket dictionaries
Li et al. (2010)
Mobile-based e-mail learning (MESLL)
Liu (2009)
Sensor and handheld augmented reality(AG)-supported
ubiquitous learning
Nah (2011)
WAP site’s use for listening activities
Sandberg et al. (2011)
Added value of mobile technology for learning
English
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Song & Fox (2008)
Referential use of mobile devices (PDAs) to enhance
learners’ incidental vocabulary learning
Learning Environment
Theoretical Developmental
Chen et al. (2008)
Content adaption in mobile learning environment
Comas-Quinn et al. (2009)
Intercultural awareness; interface between learner and
context
Cheng et al. (2010)
Contextual familiarity
de Jong et al. (2010)
Contextualized language learning
Huang et al. (2012)
Interactive learning environment
Hwang & Chen (2011)
Familiar context
Wong & Looi (2010)
Contextualized meaning making
Learning Environment
Practical Aspects
Petersen & Markiewicz (2008); Kukulska-Hulme (2010); Chen
& Chung (2008); Chen & Li (2010)
Personalization
Cheng et al. (2010)
Playfulness
Comas-Quinn et al. (2009); Kukulska-Hulme (2010); Hsu
(2012); Abdous (2009, 2012); Fallahkhair et al. (2007)
Learner-centeredness
de Jong et al. (2010)
Desirability
Huang et al. (2012); Chen & Li (2010), Cheng et al. (2010);
Chang & Hsu (2011)
Usefulness/ease of use
Hwang & Chen (2011)
User’s percipience
Cheng et al. (2010)
Student’s engagement
Table 3. Concepts used
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS
This review sought to offer a general picture of research trends in MALL with a focus on second and foreign language
acquisition published since 2007 in terms of research approaches, methods, theories and models, and results.
What Research Approaches and Methods Are Used When Analysing MALL? The scientific field of mLearning and
MALL generally, as well as L2 acquisition specifically, are emerging so unsurprisingly we found a large number of
approaches and theories employed. Most of these originate from other areas, such as applied Cognitive Load Theory
(Oberg & Daniels, 2012) and Dual-Coding Theory (Huang et al., 2012) derived from the cognitive psychology; TAM
(Cheng et al., 2010) from informatics research, and a number of learning and language acquisition theories. A number of
studies introduce mobile learning, MALL and even the Theory of Mobile Learning but it is often not clear how these new
concepts differ from other technology-enhanced learning perspectives, for example e-learning or CALL. In general,
theories are vaguely used; we found only one theory generating study (Liu et al., 2008) and no theory testing one. The
dominating research approaches within MALL for the reviewed years are descriptive studies (44 %) and what we call
“theory based studies” (46%), where the authors present a theory which in some way is related to their experiments or
case studies. For example, de Jong et al. (2010) employ sociocultural perspectives, where emphasis is on the social
motive for second language learning. There is often a lack of a clear connection between the theory and the discussion
part in the reviewed papers. There are exceptions, e.g. TAM which is strictly operationalized, but then there may be other
gaps; TAM, again, is not related to learning, only to use of technology.
As for the descriptive studies, a typical example is Godwin-Jones (2011) who illustrates the state of language learning
applications, the devices they can be applied to, and how they are developed. The descriptive studies often include
embryonic elements of philosophical or theory generating categories. For instance, the research conducted by Kukulska-
Hulme (2009) describes findings from previous research and reflects upon the phenomenon of MALL without any
explicit use of theory.
‘Experiment’ (non-strictly defined) is the most commonly applied method in the reviewed studies (47 %), followed by
interpretive case studies (28 %). Together these two methods make up 75% of the research published 2007 – 2012. Most
studies are small-scale, exploratory, and conducted within a short period of time, which makes them rather anecdotal in
terms of reliability. This is not surprising given that the field of MALL is in its developmental experimental phase and
still needs more solid empirical evidence and guidance in order to underpin conclusions about how mobile technologies
can assist language learning acquisition and in order to build theoretical models specific to this field. It is hence still an
open question to what extent MALL in the L2 area is indeed different from MALL in other areas.
Within What Theoretical Frameworks the Studies Have Been Carried Out? Theory use in the sample is very
scattered. A large number of theories were found but most theories appeared only in one paper; we saw no cumulative
theory use. Notably, many concepts appear only in one or a few papers. As one commonly cited criterion of a scientific
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field is that a common set of theories is applied, this finding indicates that MALL is yet only a potential field, united
mainly by the studies of mobile technologies.
However, despite this character of being an emerging research field undergoing a rapid evolution there are already
attempts to create field-specific theory. Sharples et al. (2007) introduces the Theory of Mobile Learning which examines
how (mobile) learning stretches across locations, times, topics, and technologies. According to this theory, which is
discussed and extended in several papers (Sandberg et al., 2011; Petersen et al., 2011; Hsieh et al., 2010 etc.), learning
which takes place in one context can become a resource in other contexts. This effort of creating theory indicates
attempts to distinguish the MALL field from other scientific learning areas and theories by raising and discussing its own
theoretical perspective. Our study finds that there is, as yet, a lack of specific reference to mobile learning conceptual
frameworks and theoretical models, which makes it difficult to clearly distinguish the theory of mobile learning from
other learning theories and approaches. MALL theory development is work in progress.
The theories and models applied in the reviewed literature on MALL often originate from grand theories of learning,
including constructivism, social constructivism. Activity Theory and Sociocultural Theory are examples often mentioned
by studies on MALL (Nah et al., 2008, de Jong et al., 2010). One of the most fundamental concepts of Sociocultural
Theory is that the human mind is mediated (Lantolf 2000). This mediation is often assisted by the tool use. Hence mobile
technology use plays a dominant role in the process of meaning making in terms of mediated nature of human mind.
MALL research often employs learning theories where such mediation is an issue, including Situated Learning Theory
(Hsieh et al., 2010, Hwang & Chen, 2011), collaborative learning (Chang & Hsu, 2011; Lan et. al., 2007), self-paced
learning (Oberg & Daniels, 2012), and seamless learning integrating formal and informal ways and contexts of learning
(Wong et al. 2010; Wong & Looi, 2010).
In order to investigate learners’ perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, intentions, and attitudes towards the use of
mobile technologies for language learning, TAM, an established theory for this purpose, is commonly applied (Chang &
Hsu, 2011; Huang et al., 2012). Most studies show that learners have a positive attitude towards the use of mobile
technologies for the second and foreign language acquisition, but there are differences. For example, Huang et al. (2012)
show that the designed system (ubiquitous English vocabulary learning system, UEVL) was readily accepted by the
students in the sample but while active students were concerned about the perceived usefulness of the system, passive
ones were more concerned about the perceived ease of use of the system.
There are theories emphasizing cognitive aspects of learning, such as the Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) which measures
the limits of people’s working memory capacity in order to investigate individuals’ working memory load when, for
example, using different specially designed intelligent systems for mobile devices for language learning (Chen et al.,
2008; Chen & Chang, 2011; Oberg & Daniels, 2012). Other models applied in the reviewed papers include Moderation
Model (Chen & Chang, 2011), Working Memory Model (Chen et al., 2008), and Structural Model (Huang et al., 2012).
A number of papers, however, do not have any clear theoretical background but are rather descriptive.
Despite the fact that many authors mention and make an attempt to define mLearning and mLearning theory in the
introductions to their studies, it is often unclear how these concepts and theories are operationalized.
What Aspects of MALL Are Being Researched? Studies analyzing the mobile technology’s use in the different aspects
of language learning have supported the idea that mobile technology can enhance learners’ second and foreign language
acquisition. Learners’ attitudes towards technologies, their intention to use it, and the various actual uses of mobile
technology integrated in their second and foreign language learning is a dominating research focus (Chang & Hsu, 2011;
Cheng et al., 2010 etc.). The impact of mobile technology on language learning has often been measured by individuals’
stated perceptions. This exemplifies what Orlikowski & Iacono (2001) call the proxy view of technology. Effectiveness
studies focus on how this technology is viewed by individual users where the perceptive, cognitive, and attitudinal
responses to technology become the critical variable in explaining mobile technology. This tool view of technology is
criticized as it fails to take into account the transformational nature of technology; technology brings with it changes not
only in procedures – how we do things – but also in our perceptions of what is doable or not, e.g. in terms of accessing
distant materials and people. Hence technology itself plays a role in reshaping people’s preferences, perceptions, and
attitudes and the new teaching and learning methods that evolve are co-constructed in a sociotechnical system rather than
engineered. This is called the ensemble view of technology (Orlikowski & Iacono, 2001), and this idea of sociotechnical
construction – as opposed to purely social construction – is something often lacking in MALL studies.
Three key themes have been identified. First, technological concepts of learning, where the mobile learning and
specifically MALL are often seen as the separate forms of learning together with more established learning theories like
constructivism and collaborative learning. A number of other approaches to learning such as situated learning, mobile
learning; authentic learning, self-paced learning are discussed when investigating individuals’ adoption and integration of
mobile technologies in their language learning.
Second, techno-centered concepts focus on technology itself as a means of communication between the learner and the
content as well as teacher and learner where a shift from sms-based learning towards the development and use of mobile
language learning applications in form of intelligent multimedia tutorial systems is noticeable. Finally, the learning
environment theme focuses on theoretical development and practical aspects of such environments. Much attention is
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paid to the different contexts of formal and informal learning, and how mobile technologies are available and can
contribute to the individual’s language learning acquisition in these different situations.
Despite the fact that a number of authors attempt to define and use the concept of MALL as an independent scientific
field, language learning with the support of mobile devices is often seen as a part of CALL (Chang & Hsu, 2011;
Sandberg et al., 2011 etc.), mobile-(assisted) learning (Hsu et al., 2008; de Jong et al., 2010). This conceptual ambiguity
indicates that the field of MALL needs more conceptualized knowledge in the form of field-specific definitions, theories,
models, and solid evidence on how the use of mobile technology can assist second and foreign language acquisition.
In What Ways does the Use of Mobile Technology Facilitate the Acquisition and Development of Linguistic
Knowledge and Language Skills? In terms of the gained linguistic knowledge and skills, most of the reviewed papers
examine vocabulary acquisition, listening and speaking skills, and language acquisition in more general terms. The
review finds several suggestions for language learning benefits in the use of MALL, such as integrating the mobile
technology in both formal and informal contexts; the ‘fun’ moment when engaging learners in authentic learning
contexts; the learners’ contribution to the creation of the learning content; the use of mobile devices to support the
practice of achieving listening and speaking skills effectively etc. Often the usefulness of the mobile technology use for
vocabulary acquisition is measured by surveying learners’ attitudes. There are also a number of studies attempting to
analyze the outcome in terms of learners’ language proficiency. However, as most studies are implemented within a short
period of time and involve a small number of participants, results are yet inconclusive in this respect.
Studies focusing on grammar learning, pronunciation and writing skills are underrepresented in the reviewed literature.
However there are the papers which analyze mobile technology applications on language acquisition in general terms
(Rosell-Aguilar, 2007; Fallahkhair et al., 2007; Petersen & Markiewicz, 2008, Liu et al., 2008; Cheng et al., 2010;
Abdous et al., 2012; Oberg & Daniels, 2011; Hsu, 2012), often indicate positive attitudes towards the mobile technology
use and suggest better results in terms of language proficiency. Very little attention is devoted to individuals’ language
learning strategies and learning styles when employing mobile devices for their language learning. This knowledge can
have a crucial impact on both educators, when for example designing language learning activities adopting mobile
devices (development of new applications and intelligent tutorial systems for mobile devices for language learners) and
learners, as they can achieve higher proficiency.
Are There Research Challenges in the Field of MALL Research that Require Further Investigation and What Can
Be Suggested for the Further Research? There is a lack of empirical studies providing concrete evidence on how the
mobile technology use can enhance individual’s language learning results. In order to ensure reliability longer studies and
larger test groups are required.
In terms of language knowledge and skills, more experimental cases testing more specifically how mobile technology can
assist and improve learners’ writing process, reading comprehension, pronunciation performance, and second language
grammar acquisition are needed.
Moreover, empirical research investigating the possible changes in individuals’ learning strategies when employing
mobile devices in their language learning is needed in order to be able to make the language acquisition process more
effective and to be able to influence the second and foreign language proficiency results. It would also be beneficial to
analyze the interconnection between individuals’ learning strategies, learning styles, and use of mobile technology. Such
knowledge would make an important contribution not only to educators and learners but also to systems developers.
From a pedagogical point of view, research on how the use of mobile technology affects individuals’ time management
when learning a new language is needed to understand if this technology can open additional learning possibilities, for
example in terms of engaged time.
Overall, more theory generating research developing mobile learning theory and constructing new theoretical models in
MALL is needed to be able to distinguish the field from other kinds of technology-assisted learning, such as CALL.
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