Title: LOCH: supporting mobile language learning outside classrooms

Authors: Hiroaki Ogata, Gan Li Hui, Chengjiu Yin, Takahito Ueda, Yasuko Oishi, Yoneo Yano

Addresses: Faculty of Engineering, Department of Information Science and Intelligent Systems, Tokushima University, 2-1, Minamijosanjima, Tokushima, 770-8506, Japan. ' Faculty of Engineering, Department of Information Science and Intelligent Systems, Tokushima University, 2-1, Minamijosanjima, Tokushima, 770-8506, Japan. ' Faculty of Engineering, Department of Information Science and Intelligent Systems, Tokushima University, 2-1, Minamijosanjima, Tokushima, 770-8506, Japan. ' International Student Center, Tokushima University, 2-1, Minamijosanjima, Tokushima, 770-8506, Japan. ' International Student Center, Tokushima University, 2-1, Minamijosanjima, Tokushima, 770-8506, Japan. ' Faculty of Engineering, Department of Information Science and Intelligent Systems, Tokushima University, 2-1, Minamijosanjima, Tokushima, 770-8506, Japan

Abstract: This paper describes a Computer-Supported Mobile Learning (CSML) environment for language learning, called Language-learning Outside the Classroom with Handhelds (LOCH). In the environment, the teacher assigns field activities to the students, who go around the town to fulfil them and share their individual knowledge and experiences. The main aim of this project, called One-Day Trip with PDA, was to integrate the knowledge acquired in the classroom and the real needs of the students in their daily life. This paper also presents the evaluation by five different groups of foreign students for the past three years.

Keywords: mobile learning; m-learning; language learning; personal digital assistants; PDAs; global positioning systems; GPS; outside classroom activity; foreign students; foreign languages.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMLO.2008.020319

International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation, 2008 Vol.2 No.3, pp.271 - 282

Published online: 15 Sep 2008 *

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