Exploring the perceptions of EFL learners towards mobile-assisted vocabulary acquisition

Abstract

This research examined how high school students felt about using the Busuu app to learn new vocabulary. The study used a qualitative research approach to elicit in-depth opinions on the subject. In addition, it assessed the benefits and challenges experienced by the participants when using Busuu, a language learning application, to acquire English language vocabulary.  With 25 high school students from a public high school in the Saudi Arabian educational district of Ar Rass, a semi-structured interview (questions asked in Arabic) was conducted. The collected data were coded, conceptually examined, and documented. The findings indicated that students have a positive attitude about utilizing the Busuu a language learning mobile application to aid in their vocabulary acquisition. The majority of users had a positive view of Busuu when it came to expanding their vocabularies.  Additionally, it revealed that the Busuu helps students become more motivated, have fun, and expand their vocabulary. Finally, the study highlighted various technical or legal challenges that stop students from using mobile applications, which are summed up in the challenge of getting an internet connection or the prohibition of using mobile at school.