An Analysis of the Efficiency of a Selection of Mobile Language Learning Apps

Abstract

This chapter aims to pinpoint the features characterizing a mobile app that make it effective to learn a foreign language. To reach this aim, the authors used two types of instruments: publicly available efficacy reports on four popular language learning apps and a framework for evaluating language learning apps. A correlation study was conducted between the two instruments by depicting several parameters from the efficacy reports: the number of hours needed to cover the requirements of one semester, the number of participants who did and did not improve their language skills using the app, the efficacy or improvement per hour, and app user perception. Subsequently, the apps were analyzed according to the evaluation framework. The study concludes that learner improvement is closely related to the underlying pedagogy implemented within the app, that there is a strong correlation between language uptake and overall user satisfaction, and that the more interaction, interactivity, and better technological traits an app has, the higher quantity of study hours the user spends on the app.