Mobile data-driven language learning: Affordances and learners' perception. (August 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pérez-Paredes, Pascual; Ordoñana Guillamón, Carlos; Van de Vyver, Julie; Meurice, Alice; Aguado Jiménez, Pilar; Conole, Grainne; Sánchez Hernández, Purificación
• Is Part Of: System. Volume 84(2019)
• Page Start: 145
• Page End: 159
• Publication Date: 2019-08
• Subjects: Data-driven learning, DDL -- Mobile assisted language learning, MALL -- Corpus linguistics -- Language learning -- Open educational resources -- Learners' perception; Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; Langage et langues -- Étude et enseignement -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 407
• DOI: 10.1016/j.system.2019.06.009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0346-251X

Abstract

Abstract: Data-driven learning (DDL) is a learner-focused approach which promotes language learners' discovery of linguistic patterns of use and meaning by examining extensive samples of attested uses of language. Despite the emergence of mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) and its affordances, i.e. individualization and personalization, the potential of DDL in this context has not been widely explored. This study involved the creation of a mobile language learning app based on freely available natural language processing (NLP) tools, followed by a test of the app to gather the attitudes and perceptions of several groups of language learners across Europe. The results suggest a generally positive evaluation of DDL's instant and personalized feedback and direct access to a variety of tools. Besides, suggestions for improvement were made concerning the design of the tasks, such as the addition of further built-in tools and adaptations to hardware constraints. Analyses also showed a need for specialized learner training, so as to grasp the potential of the feedback provided. This study may be construed as a first step towards creating more fleshed-out tools and further investigating the potential of combining DDL and MALL.