Taxonomy of mobile apps for language learning: three groups plus a separate dictionaries/translators category¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · 1 claim (1 for) · 1 study (1 design), q2 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 1 claim rests on one study

Description¶

The article proposes a classification of apps usable for language learning, arguing that classifying apps into types helps learners, teachers, and researchers conceptualize and evaluate them. As printed, "Apps are categorized in three groups according to whether they are primarily designed as language learning tools or not, and with a separate category for dictionaries and translators." The first group covers whole-language learning packages (e.g. Duolingo, Busuu) and apps targeting specific language areas; the second covers apps not designed for language learning but useful to learners; dictionaries and translators form a separate group.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• The taxonomy distinguishes apps designed for language learning from apps designed for other purposes but useful to learners, so evaluators must first identify an app's primary design purpose

Constraints¶

• The article notes previous skill-focused classifications did not clearly differentiate language-learning apps from other useful apps, which this taxonomy addresses

Target Learners¶

• autonomous language learners
• language teachers
• CALL researchers

Target Learning Objectives¶

• selecting and evaluating mobile apps for language learning

Claims¶

• Language teachers in two workshops responded positively to the evaluation framework, leading to a four-category revision [+W]

Related Theories¶

• Four-category framework for evaluating language-learning apps: technology, pedagogy, user experience, and language learning
• Taxonomy development for technology: a four-step research approach to visualize the totality of technology

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Rosell-Aguilar, F. (2017). State of the App: A Taxonomy and Framework for Evaluating Language Learning Mobile Applications. CALICO Journal. https://doi.org/10.1558/cj.27623