Abstract:

There are many teaching methodologies and computer resources that can be used to learn a language. It is still under research which ones should be used for each context and according to each group of students’ needs. In this paper, it is proposed, for the first time, to use a mobile phone app, called EasyChinese, for parents and children to learn Chinese together at home following a Blended Learning methodology according to Bandura Social Learning Theory. The research question is whether having the app available in the mobile device for parents and children to review together at any time outside the classroom will boost language learning. Moreover, it is supposed that parents and children will enjoy learning Chinese that way. An experiment has been performed with 35 children together with their parents, and 14 adults to answer the question formulated. The results gathered in a pre-post test study splitting the sample into test and group controls support the possibility of boosting Chinese learning. Moreover, children and parents seem to have enjoyed the experience.

Keywords:

Mobile learning, Blended Learning, Social Learning Theory.