EFL Learners' Perceptions Regarding the Use of Busuu Application in Language Learning: Evaluating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)
English Language Teaching
; 15(1):1-15, 2022.
Article
in English
| ProQuest Central | ID: covidwho-1823640
ABSTRACT
After the exceptional circumstances the whole world has experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students have become digital natives who seek learning that overcomes the barriers of place and time. This mixed-methods study aimed at investigating EFL learners' perceptions regarding the application of Busuu in language learning, by applying the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The participants were 58 first secondary stage students in a Saudi private school. An online survey and a semi-structured interview were used to collect data. The results revealed that EFL learners have a positive attitude towards Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL). Additionally, according to the TAM, the participants found the language application Busuu useful and easy to use. They also thought of Busuu as a valuable resource for language learning, which increases their motivation to be autonomous learners. However, in addition to the TAM components, the results also showed that affordance and joyfulness could be strong indicators of learners' acceptance of a particular technology. Moreover, the results revealed that mobile applications might be more helpful for beginner learners than advanced ones. On the other hand, the findings also showed that Busuu might distract learners from doing their homework. Besides, the regular use of Busuu might be harmful to their eyes due to the small mobile screen size. For further research, the recommendation includes a large sample size in addition to a long-term study of EFL learners' perception towards Busuu in normal classroom circumstances.
ERIC, Current Index to Journals in Education (CIJE); Secondary Education; Computer Oriented Programs; English (Second Language); Social Media; Second Language Learning; Student Attitudes; Foreign Countries; Computer Assisted Instruction; Secondary School Students; Saudi Arabia; Second Language Instruction; Affordances; Handheld Devices; Usability
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Collection:
Databases of international organizations
Database:
ProQuest Central
Type of study:
Experimental Studies
/
Observational study
/
Qualitative research
Language:
English
Journal:
English Language Teaching
Year:
2022
Document Type:
Article
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