Abstract:

Classroom instruction can only cover a fraction of the language instruction; however, with the advancement in mobile technology it has become possible to extend the language curriculum beyond the classroom. The presenter will report on an action-research that uses a blended learning model of teaching to help learners acquire words from the 3000 Academic Word List. Blended or hybrid learning is a mode of teaching that combines face-to-face interaction and on-line learning. The need for blended learning emerged with the widespread availability of digital technology in educational environments and the time constraints placed on the language curriculum with traditional face-to-face learning courses. Students were instructed to make use of the learning management systems and technological devices, that were made available to them, to access materials, interact with the teacher and complete their language tasks. Findings show that the intervention has aided students in improving their vocabulary knowledge, while research implications draw on the importance of using multiple instructional methods to help students attain course goals and empower them as language learners.

Keywords:

Mobile Technology, Independent Learning.