Learner perspectives regarding device type in technology-assisted language learning. Issue 8 (17th November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ko, Myong-Hee
• Is Part Of: Computer assisted language learning. Volume 30:Issue 8(2017)
• Page Start: 844
• Page End: 863
• Publication Date: 2017-11-17
• Subjects: Learning devices -- learning platforms -- smartphone -- CALL -- TALL -- MALL; Language and languages -- Computer-assisted instruction -- Periodicals; 418.00285
• DOI: 10.1080/09588221.2017.1367310
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0958-8221

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study compared learner perspectives regarding using PCs and smartphones as learning devices. A total of 167 Korean university students completed online assignments designed to maximize interaction with these devices. The assignments required students to submit their responses regarding assigned reading passages for a semester. Then they completed an online survey of five questions: (a) most frequently used device; (b) reasons for favoring a particular device; (c) limitations of a particular device; (d) better device for facilitating cognitive effort; (e) places where they used a particular device. The results showed that half the participants used PCs and the other half used smartphones. PC users favored 'comfortable use, ' whereas smartphone users favored 'ubiquitous learning.' PC users reported 'not easily portable' was the most prominent limitation, whereas smartphone users pointed out 'using smartphone's costly data' and 'uncomfortable to drag/move' were noticeable limitations. In general however, the majority of both PC and smartphone users reported no limitations in using these devices as learning tools. Regarding facilitating cognitive effort, around 38.0% of participants indicated that there was no difference between these two devices. Most PC users did online assignments either at home or in a dormitory. Smartphone users completed tasks in several different places.