Title: A systematic review of mobile-based synchronous and asynchronous language teaching and learning

Authors: Zilin Wang; Di Zou; Lucas Kohnke; Gary Cheng; Lixun Wang

Addresses: School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China ' Department of English Language Education, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China ' Department of English Language Education, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China ' Department of Mathematics and Information Technology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China ' Department of Linguistics and Modern Language Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China

Abstract: Research on the use of mobile applications in language teaching and learning has been extensive, especially since the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this review of articles, we systematically examine 112 empirical studies investigating the effectiveness of mobile-based synchronous and asynchronous language teaching and learning published from 2000 to 2022. We examined the languages, language skills that were learnt, the educational level of the learners, the mobile learning applications, and the learning activity durations. We also identified the effectiveness, challenges, and pedagogical implications of implementing mobile applications in online language teaching and learning. Based on the results, we propose a pedagogical model incorporating three online learning factors - participants, learning activities, and mobile applications - to identify the prerequisites for successful online language learning. We also suggest practical ideas for language teachers who are eager to integrate mobile applications into their online classes aimed at specific language skills. Finally, we identify potential trends in the research and suggest future research directions.

Keywords: systematic review; mobile-based language education; synchronous language education; asynchronous language education; mobile applications; online education; language skills; pedagogical implications; language learning activities; pedagogical model.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMLO.2024.141801

International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation, 2024 Vol.18 No.4, pp.409 - 439

Received: 29 Aug 2022
Accepted: 30 Nov 2022
Published online: 02 Oct 2024 *

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