Mobile Assisted Language Learning - Affordances and Constraints

Affordances and Constraints

Enhancing language learning through MALL affords some dynamics not available through the traditional classroom that the language learner can take advantage of. Some of these affordances are even unique to m-learning compared to regular e-learning. In the same way, there are some constraints to m-learning that limit what can be done in language acquisition through m-learning compared to traditional e-learning or classroom learning.

Among the most noted affordances for MALL is ubiquitous access to learning anytime at any place that the user has reception. Compared to classroom or e-learning, the user does not need to be sitting in a classroom or at a computer to access learning materials. This enables users to brush up on language skills just before or just after a conversation in the language they are learning. Handheld delivery also affords new dynamics for collaborative learning as users can share the language learning process in small synchronous groups (Nah, et al. 2008).

Kloper et al. (2002) claimed 5 properties of mobile devices which can produce unique educational affordances:

• Portability-the small size and weight of mobile devices means they can be taken to different sites or moved around within a site.
• Social interactivity-data exchange and collaboration with other learners can happen face-to-face.
• Context sensitivity-mobile devices can both gather and respond to real or simulated data unique to the current location, environment and time.
• Connectivity-a shared network can be created by connecting mobile devices to data collection devices, other devices or to a common network.
• Individuality- scaffolding for difficult activities can be customized for individual learners.

The most notable constraints for earlier MALL include poor sound and display quality coupled with very limited devices and download speeds. Newer integrated PDA devices have narrowed the gap with higher access speeds, larger screens, having functions and capacities similar to laptop computers (Nah, et al. 2008).