The goal of this thesis is to find out how often language learning apps are already used and to analyze their potential for the upcoming years, i.e. whether they might be able to supplement or even replace traditional language classes one day. The study presented in this thesis consists of two parts: an analysis of the term language learning app, their user numbers and their teaching methods in order to be able to find their strengths and weaknesses and a survey conducted among students of the University of Trier in which they were asked about their past usage of language learning apps, as well as their attitudes and opinions towards language learning apps in general, including their opinions about the potential of language learning apps.
Not long ago, mobile phones were only a means of communication and it was hard to imagine that one day they could fulfil literally hundreds of tasks. Today, thanks to mobile apps, they can be a map, a book, a video game and even a spirit level all at once. One of their most valuable new features, though, are educational apps. They allow users to learn anything from coding to chemical elements to languages and have been changing the educational landscape ever since.
Language learning apps have been especially disruptive. No other type of educational apps is used as often as they are. Today, apps like Duolingo and Babbel have more than 100 million active users, with their numbers increasing by the day. They offer courses in languages from Spanish to Hawaiian and are no longer limited to vocabulary teaching only.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Theoretical Background
2.1 Mobile Apps
2.2 Language Learning Apps
2.2.1 Definition
2.2.2 Classification within CALL / MALL
2.2.3 Most famous Language Learning Apps
2.2.4 Comparison
2.3 Methodological Approaches of Language Learning Apps
2.3.1 Language acquisition theories
2.3.2 Summary
2.4 Advantages and Disadvantages of Language Learning Apps
2.4.1 Advantages
2.4.2 Disadvantages
3. Methodology
4. Results
4.1 Past Experience with Language Learning Apps
4.2 Requirements for a Good Language Learning App
4.3 Potential of Language Learning Apps
5. Discussion
6. Conclusion
Objectives & Core Topics
This thesis examines the current usage patterns and educational potential of language learning apps. It specifically investigates whether these digital tools can effectively supplement or eventually replace traditional face-to-face language instruction, based on both a theoretical analysis of app methodologies and empirical data from a student survey.
- Evolution and disruption of educational apps in the mobile market.
- Methodological classification of apps within CALL (Computer-Assisted Language Learning) and MALL (Mobile-Assisted Language Learning).
- Comparative analysis of leading apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone.
- Empirical study of student experiences, requirements, and attitudes regarding app-based language learning.
- Assessment of future potential for app-based learning in academic and formal education environments.
Excerpt from the Book
2.2.1 Definition
Language learning apps are a relatively new type of educational apps whose purpose it is to facilitate language learning. As this is a relatively new concept, at the time of publication of this thesis there is no clear definition of the term language learning app. However, it could be taken literally as apps that support language learning. This would include apps that contain language courses, dictionaries or other material that might be useful for language learners. In this thesis, however, the focus will be on apps that provide language learning systems for autodidactic language learning. Therefore, the definition of the term language learning app will be narrowed to mobile apps that provide language learning systems and use specific educational methods.
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: Outlines the rise of mobile applications in education and defines the research goal of analyzing language learning apps as potential substitutes or supplements for traditional classrooms.
2. Theoretical Background: Provides a comprehensive overview of mobile app trends, defines language learning apps, classifies them within CALL and MALL frameworks, and evaluates the psychological learning theories (behaviorism, constructivism, cognitivism) integrated into these tools.
3. Methodology: Describes the design and execution of a survey conducted among 100 students at the University of Trier to collect empirical data on app usage and learner preferences.
4. Results: Presents the findings regarding students' past experiences with specific apps, their criteria for high-quality language software, and their perceptions of the educational potential of these apps.
5. Discussion: Evaluates the survey results in context, acknowledging the sample size limitations while highlighting clear student trends toward viewing apps as valuable learning supplements.
6. Conclusion: Summarizes the thesis findings, noting the continued growth of language apps and the persistent reservation students hold regarding the total replacement of traditional classroom instruction.
Keywords
Language Learning Apps, Mobile-Assisted Language Learning, MALL, CALL, Duolingo, Babbel, Digital Education, Language Acquisition Theories, Behaviorism, Constructivism, Cognitivism, Student Survey, Educational Technology, Self-Directed Learning, Smartphone Apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this thesis?
The thesis focuses on the usage, methodological approaches, and future potential of language learning apps as tools that may complement or replace traditional language instruction.
What are the central thematic fields covered?
The work covers mobile technology growth, the definition and classification of language learning apps, psychological learning theories, and empirical research on student attitudes.
What is the primary research goal?
The main goal is to determine how frequently students use these apps and to analyze if they are perceived as effective enough to supplement or replace face-to-face language classes.
Which scientific methods are employed?
The study utilizes a theoretical analysis of current app methodologies alongside an empirical survey of 100 students at the University of Trier to gather qualitative and quantitative data.
What is covered in the main section?
The main section analyzes the market for educational apps, compares the instructional methods of major providers (Duolingo, Busuu, Babbel, etc.), and discusses their integration of learning theories.
Which keywords characterize this research?
Key terms include MALL (Mobile-Assisted Language Learning), language acquisition, educational disruption, gamification, and digital learning tools.
How do popular language apps differ in their pedagogical approach?
Apps range from focusing purely on vocabulary and visual mnemonics (like Drops) to those using communicative dialogs and behaviorist reinforcement techniques (like Duolingo and Babbel).
What does the empirical data suggest about the potential of these apps?
While students generally have positive experiences and see apps as excellent supplements, they remain skeptical about the ability of apps to replace traditional, teacher-led classroom instruction entirely.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Luca Diehl (Autor:in), 2019, Usage and Potential of Language Learning Apps, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/512898
