AIMI SYAFIQAH GHAZALI

2014743991
 Mobile assisted language learning (MALL) is actually a
subarea of mobile learning (m-learning) and also
computer assisted language learning (CALL). In order
to address the need to learn beyond the physical
classroom setting, MALL was introduced. The use of
MALL is parallel with Malaysia Education Blueprint
2013-2025 Shift 7: Leverage ICT to scale up quality
learning across Malaysia. The use of MALL has been
introduced widely all over the world but it is still a
new phenomenon in Malaysia.

The use of MALL are both advantageous and

disadvantageous in different aspects as it promotes
accessibility, autonomous learning and convenience, but it
also has issues in terms of utilization, time constraint and
willingness of using MALL
 • Anywhere, anytime.
• Use the English language and connect with
native speakers all over the world
• Assess to multiple functions in one device ->
• Teachers could train students to
addresses all four skills; listening, speaking,
be self-directed in learning
reading and writing.
English while using MALL
• Students spend extra time
leaning the language outside of
class • Shorter sessions compared to lectures in class
• Focuses on smaller units
 • Research found that students need to be
forced to use the devices for language
• Utility provided by institutions are not fully learning. They are reluctant to use the
utilized since students end up using their own devices on their own initiative
devices for learning.
• Students and teachers do not fully utilize the
devices due to lack of skills in handling them.

• It consumes a lot of time to train the teachers on how to use the

devices. Students tend to learn faster, but it may take a long time
as well for those who have no experience in handling these
devices.
• The time taken to train the teachers and students could not cope
with the advancement of technology.
 • Students who do not own mobile devices or do not have
the advanced features on their device might feel left out
as compared to the other students.
• The same goes with connectivity as there are places that
has limited internet connection

• The use of mobile devices in classes could increase the

probability of students not focusing in class, especially when
they use their own device.

• The use of MALL in Malaysia is a rare occasion. It can be seen that it is used in tertiary
level, but it is rarely seen in primary and secondary schools
• Malaysia is still working on the use of CALL in school as compared to MALL.
• Malaysia is not ready to implement MALL in schools as there are schools without the
connection and utility to do so.
This paper presents the advantages and disadvantages of integrating the
use of mobile assisted language learning as part of the teaching and
learning sessions. The use of MALL could cause some of the students to
feel left out due to the fact that there are some who could not afford the
devices, and some of them lack the skill needed to handle them. Teachers
also do not have a complete control over the usage of the devices in the
classroom. As a matter of fact, willingness in using their devices for
language learning is also an issue as the teachers need to force the
students to utilize the devices. Furthermore, time constraint is also an
issue as the technology keeps advancing and produces new language
learning applications but the time taken to learn the skill needed to handle
these devices could not match the speed. It is also a concern that the
devices are not fully utilized due to the lack of skills needed. Despite the
disadvantages listed in the paper, the advantages outweigh them. MALL
promotes accessibility in which it can be accessed at any time by anyone.
Students can also become autonomous learners as they are able to
perform the tasks on their own initiative. Furthermore, lessons tend to be
simpler and will not burden the learners with too much information.