Reading Reflection for session 4

Chinnery, G. M. (2006). Going to the MALL: Mobile Assisted Language Learning. Language Learning & Technology, 10(1), 9-16.

Because I was not able to log in run run shaw library, I could not download the essential reading "Language Learner Behaviour in a Virtual Environment". But I read the above one instead.

It introduces how mobile learning (m-learning) work in language teaching and learning. It discusses about benefits of m-learning and challenges are reviewed. It also argues against "technology-driven pedagogy". It encourages us that we should have a thoughtful application of second language pedagogy first. Then, we consider how to effectively use of the technology tool.

The advantages and the limitations of using the portable media, such as cell phones, PDAs, iPods in language teaching and learning were introduced. Numbers of studies done by the scholars showed the practical uses of mobile technologies and supported that the tools could help learning effectively. The main limitation is that the costs to educational institutions of purchasing the tools are very high.

In HK, some schools are trying out m-learning for a particular subject and a particular class. The school was assisted by the government with a great amount of money to buy Palms for every student in that particular class. They have lessons and do projects outside the classroom with Palms. When the teachers upload the information to the Internet, all of the students can get it immediately by downloading from the Internet with their Palms. I think it s really a good idea to use a mobile media device to learn as it is fast, updated, convenient and learning is not limited by space. I can get the most updated news or information I want to learn wherever I am. But it is not common to use mobile technology in HK's classroom. The first limitation is the high cost. The second is that the teachers and students are not familiar with mobile learning.