Mobile assisted language learning in the workplace – developing the context-aware learning application Appla

Abstract

This paper discusses the possibilities for Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) in the workplace. We present an on-going project on developing a language learning application Appla and report on a pilot study of its use. The Appla application is based on speech recognition: it records and transcribes the ongoing interaction the language learner/employee is involved in and provides information about it (e.g. transcriptions of conversations, word lists). Thus, the application is context-aware (cf. Stockwell, 2016), i.e. the learning material is gathered from real interaction around the learner. The target group of the application consists of adult L2 learners, who have basic knowledge of Finnish and who want to improve (professional) Finnish language skills. In the pilot study reported, the Appla application was tested in simulated work-like tasks by second language speakers.