Evaluating current Mobile Applications for English Vocabulary learning: based on Hubbard’s framework

The Rapid development of computer technology in recent years has presented broad opportunities for its use in various fields, including the field of language teaching. At present, a number of tools, including a vast variety of language teaching applications, is readily available on the market. The aim of this study is to investigate the relevant learning theories underpinning the current mobile apps for English vocabulary learning, the pedagogic features of these apps, and the evaluations of the apps mainly from the learners perspective. To examine the current mobile apps for English vocabulary learning, 10 apps were first searched and selected on Google Play. These apps were then analyzed according to the Hubbard’s framework of evaluation. Open-ended questionnaires were sent to five participants and group interview was conducted to collect the learners feedback on the chosen apps and their perceptions of mobile apps-assisted language learning experiences. Given the disjuncture between the promising future potential and the disappointing current reality of m-learning and MALL, it is important that educators have an evaluative framework which can guide them in assessing the benefits of the mobile resources they are considering using with their students. The results have shown that as with m-leaning in general, the vast majority of available mobile apps are underpinned by a behaviorist, teacher-centered transmission model of instruction despite the potential for more innovative constructivist, collaborative, learner-centered instruction. Regarding the learners feedback, both the users online reviews and the research participants comments have shown their positive attitudes toward using current mobile apps for English language learning, although a couple of technological limitations still exist. The novel and enjoyable ways of learning would have a great potential to increase learning motivation and encourage lifelong learning habits. More research will be needed in the field of mobile apps in order to suggest the right direction to effective language learning