An Investigation into the Role of Tablet Devices in Facilitating Collaborative Learning in EFL Language Course

Authors

  • Haifa Albadry Newcastle University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v12i04.6732

Keywords:

Mobile Assisted Language Learning, Language Learning, Collaboration, Interdependence, Tablet device

Abstract


The following paper outlines research concerning the ways in which learners use tablet devices, namely the iPad device, to learn English both in and outside of the classroom and how students’ interdependence and collaborative learning may be fostered by such an approach. The study comprised of 21 Saudi university students at Dammam University, who were provided with the iPad device over a 12-week period. The potential use of the device as a mediating learning tool, in order to develop students’ collaboration and interaction, is discussed with reference to data compiled from students’ learning diaries, focus group interviews, and online log files. The results suggest tablet devices aid learning by providing meaningful opportunities to use the target language in context and encouraging collaborative interaction. The findings also indicate that various types of teacher support, as well as interaction with the teacher and other students, remain necessary alongside tablet-assisted language learning.

Author Biography

Haifa Albadry, Newcastle University

Ph.D. student in Educational and Applied Linguistics at Newcastle University, UK. My doctoral work explores the potential effects of mobile devices in particular the iPad device on language learners’ autonomous learning and motivation. I hold an MA in Applied Linguistics and TESOL and a BA in English Literature.

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Published

2017-04-28

How to Cite

Albadry, H. (2017). An Investigation into the Role of Tablet Devices in Facilitating Collaborative Learning in EFL Language Course. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (iJET), 12(04), pp. 39–52. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v12i04.6732

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Section

Papers