Mobile learning in English vocabulary acquisition: towards implementation in Malaysian secondary schools

Abstract

This thesis explores the use of mobile phones to support English vocabulary learning in Malaysian schools and develops an implementation strategy which consists of the policy and procedure through an Educational Research and Development (ER&D) methodology (Borg and Gall, 1979) with the interview as the main research tool. The methodology consists of rigorous steps in developing, evaluating and disseminating the implementation strategy as well as exploring other issues associated with mobile learning implementation in Malaysian schools.

Based on the respondent’s perspectives, it has been established that the implementation strategy developed in this study would have the potential to provide guidance in the implementation of mobile learning in Malaysian schools. There is also a potential to utilise mobile phones to complement the existing practices in Malaysian schools: adding value to the existing initiatives for teaching the English Language in Malaysian schools; complementing the ICT policy in the Malaysian Education System; complementing the Malaysian Smart School vision to utilise mobile technologies; and becoming an alternative teaching and learning tool. This study also explores emerging themes in the implementation of mobile learning.

These are the opportunities of utilising mobile phones including: to support English Language subject; as an affordable device; as a common device among students; as a future teaching and learning tool; as an engaging and motivational learning device; to support various learning activities; and to prepare students for their future with digital literacy. The challenges identified are: misuse, current educational policy, management and maintenance, stakeholders’ attitude, digital divide and personal space invasion.

The study sheds light on the situation regarding the utilisation of mobile phones including the challenges that need to be addressed to make it a reality. It is envisaged that the implementation strategy would help towards the realisation of mobile learning implementation in Malaysian schools.

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ORCID for John Woollard: orcid.org/0000-0002-4518-0784

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