The Use of Mobile-Assisted Language Learning through Liulishuo for English Speaking Skill of Grade 7 Chinese Students
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Abstract
In recent years, with the widespread adoption and continual advancement of mobile technology, mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) has garnered significant attention as an innovative pedagogical tool, particularly in China. This study aimed to examine the impact of mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) through the "Liulishuo" application on grade 7 Chinese students’ English-speaking skills and satisfaction level. Using a clustered random sampling method, 30 grade 7 students in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, were selected as a sample group. Eight lesson plans, English-speaking tests (pretest and posttest), and a 5-point Likert questionnaire were applied, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a paired sample t-test. The result demonstrated that there was a significant difference between the pretest score (x̄=6.73) and the posttest one (x̄=10.23). In addition, the students rated all items of the questionnaire from high to high, showing that they were satisfied with the use of this application for learning English speaking skills. However, during the interviews, this study also found that MALL, through the "Liulishuo" application, suffers from a lack of content richness and tends to overlook the importance of face-to-face English communication between teachers and students. The findings of the study have offered valuable insight into teaching and learning English speaking skills, and this may contribute to another effective way for English language teachers in China and other stakeholders.
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