Scaffolding Successful Mobile Experiences for Frontline ESL Workers: An Exploratory Study

Authors

  • Anne O'Bryan University of Massachusetts Boston
  • Lily Compton University of Massachusetts Boston
  • Juan David Gutiérrez University of Massachusetts Boston
  • Thais Payne University of Massachusetts Boston

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3991/ijac.v12i3.11182

Keywords:

English as a second language, mobile-assisted language learning, workplace language learning

Abstract


This 10-week exploratory study investigates the use of a mobile language learning app, Babbel, by 10 ESL front-line employees and 4 managers and native English-speaking employees at a Fortune 500 company. We focused on the participants’ motivations for using the language learning app and the challenges that they faced. Three key thematic findings were convenience of access, instrumental motivation, and state communicative self-confidence, while challenges included technological literacy and accountability. Recommendations emphasize the importance of onboarding procedures for those with low technological literacy, continual support from a community of practice, and management participation.

Author Biographies

Anne O'Bryan, University of Massachusetts Boston

Anne O’Bryan is a lecturer in Applied Linguistics at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Her primary research areas are in online language teaching and learning, teacher education, and computer-assisted language learning.

Lily Compton, University of Massachusetts Boston

Lily Compton is a lecturer in Applied Linguistics at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Her primary research areas are in computer-assisted language learning, online language teaching and learning, teacher education, and curriculum and instructional technology.

Juan David Gutiérrez, University of Massachusetts Boston

Juan David Gutiérrez is a third-year PhD student in Applied Linguistics
at the University of Massachusetts Boston. His research interests include
language identity, language teaching and learning, language policy, and curriculum.

Thais Payne, University of Massachusetts Boston

Thais Payne is a second-year master's student of Applied Linguistics at the University of Massachusetts Boston. She is a 6-12 English as a Second Language teacher and aspiring PhD candidate. 

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Published

2019-12-05

How to Cite

O’Bryan, A., Compton, L., Gutiérrez, J. D., & Payne, T. (2019). Scaffolding Successful Mobile Experiences for Frontline ESL Workers: An Exploratory Study. International Journal of Advanced Corporate Learning (iJAC), 12(3), pp. 24–32. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijac.v12i3.11182

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 3 (2019)

Section

ICELW Papers