Bridging Technologies and Techniques: Exploring MALL Strategies Used Among Chinese Undergraduates’ Spoken English Learning

Abstract

Amidst the surge in the use of mobile technology and the escalating demand for English proficiency in global academia and industry, mobile devices have become increasingly popular among undergraduates in learning English. In exploring Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) strategies among Chinese undergraduates for enhancing spoken English skills, this study employed a mixed-methods approach, surveying 53 students from a private university. The research focused on identifying when, where, and how students engage with MALL, the applications they use, and the strategies they prefer. Results revealed a tendency to utilize MALL during leisure and evening times, predominantly in comfortable home settings, with a strong inclination towards vocabulary apps alongside a comprehensive use of various language skill-focused apps. Cognitive and social learning strategies emerged as significant, indicating a preference for active and interactive learning modalities. These findings highlight the potential of MALL to significantly enrich traditional language learning methods, with implications for learners, educators, policymakers, and app developers to leverage mobile technologies more effectively in language education.