The research study explored online language learners' self-directed language learning (SDLL) experiences, benefits, motivations, and challenges when employing educational tools like Duolingo in an out of classroom context. To gain insights into SDLL, in-depth and semi-structured interviews with 10 Duolingo users were conducted. Study results…

Recent research shows that transnational families draw on digital media in their language learning. However, little systematic knowledge exists on the nature of these practices, the tools used, and the families' views regarding digital media use for language learning. This article addresses this knowledge gap, presenting the results of an online…

This paper covers the work in progress of an e-platform being developed for language enhancement at a tertiary institution in Hong Kong. There is an actual or perceived concern about the English and Chinese language ability of undergraduate students at certain universities in Hong Kong. One reason for this is that a significant proportion of…

Informal Digital Learning of English (IDLE) refers to individual's learning endeavor occurring in out-of-class environments in a naturalistic way independent from the requirements of a formal education program including assessment. Learners' IDLE experiences in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) contexts are quite important to understand their…

Many learners of English as a foreign language often feel that learning spoken English is frustrating and quite difficult, especially when they have to talk to English-speaking foreigners. In general, because they are unfamiliar with the spoken mode of English and are worried about making grammatical errors, they often feel very scared to speak…

Mobile-assisted language learning has expanded beyond relatively humble beginnings of replicating computer-based activities assigned in formal language learning contexts, and it now often consists of a complex mix of formal and informal learning activities that take place at different times and places throughout learners' daily lives. Decisions…

As research into online informal language learning (OILL) develops as a field, the impact on such practices for a wide variety of contexts can be considered. In the case of this publication, the study abroad (SA) context is of particular interest. Indeed the study abroad student may interact with a range of online learning resources in formal,…

The landscape of self-directed learning in mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) is changing from mechanical and repetitive to communicative and meaningful learning. This is due to the development and integration of conversational agents into mobile devices. Students can learn a language via a self-directed interactive app (SIA) where they can…

With the progression of various mobile technologies, mobile applications have tremendously increased, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, and such applications have been exploited much in teaching and learning. This study explores the educational potential of using mobile applications in English language teaching (ELT) or Mobile Assisted…

The expansion of the "Netflix" TV-network around the globe has made foreign language films and TV-series accessible for formal and informal language learning experiences. As students in educational settings are starting to engage in informal second language (L2) "Netflix" viewing, it is time that new pedagogical approaches…

In 2016, a number of language applications released chatbots to complement their programmes. Used primarily in informal learning settings, chatbots enable language learners to engage in conversational speaking practice, which can be perceived as less threatening than face-to-face interactions with native speakers. This study takes a closer look at…

Language learners' identity construction and language learning through narratives (Norton 2010; Johnson 2015) and multimodal technologies (Lam 2006; White 2007) have been found to be effective ways to facilitate ESL learning. Additionally, Multimodal pedagogies and narrative practices in the language classroom facilitate L2 learning, investment in…

Fan practices involving translation open up opportunities to explore language learning practices within the fandom (Sauro, 2017). We examine how three fans capitalize on fan translation and language learning. We consider the cases of Selo (an English-Spanish translator of games), Nino (a Japanese-Catalan fansubber of anime, and Alro (an…

There is great interest in the potential of smartphones to enable language learning during daily activities. However, this overlooks the paradox faced by migrant learners that while they have the educational goal of seeking to improve their language skills, they also have the cultural goal of fitting into the host society. Inappropriate use of…

This study aims to understand the extent to which English as a foreign language learners use technology for their autonomous language learning beyond the classroom. With a cross-sectional survey design approach, the study focuses on learner characteristics. It first investigates the existing language learner profiles of 512 English major…