Examining the use of mobile apps for developing writing in English language learning
2018 (English)Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
We have observed that in some ways the school system is not fully embracing the imminent
technological presence by incorporating digital tools in education. The Swedish curriculum
states that schools should utilize technology preparing the pupils for the foreseeable future.
The Swedish schools are also predominantly devoted to the sociocultural theory by Vygotsky.
Incorporating mobile apps, or otherwise similar technology, to a higher degree should be
considered. This research synthesis therefore examines if mobile apps can be used to develop
pupils´ writing skills in English. Two sub-questions are investigated: what are the benefits and
drawbacks of using mobile apps in conjunction with writing in English, and how can mobile
apps can be used as a collaborative learning tool in connection with writing? The articles
reviewed generated a number of findings. Firstly, it helped the pupils to gain an overview of
their written text, helping them to organize and sequence. Secondly, in many cases a burst of
motivation spread among the pupils. Thirdly, through collaborative work with apps, pupils
could benefit from peer-editing feedback. However, some evidence of problem areas were
identified. Firstly, little research was found for the desired age group, so we had to use studies
researching mobile app for writing with older pupils, in some cases even students at
university. Secondly, it was found that the success of incorporating mobile apps for writing in
English mainly rested in the competence and digital knowledge of the teacher. We therefore
concluded that teacher digital literacy should be further researched.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
Malmö universitet/Lärande och samhälle , 2018. , p. 30
Keywords [en]
Mobile apps, writing, English language learning, collaborative learning, collaborative feedback.
National Category
Engineering and Technology
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:mau:diva-32262Local ID: 24391OAI: oai:DiVA.org:mau-32262DiVA, id: diva2:1494073
Educational program
LS Degree of Master of Arts in Primary Education
Supervisors
Examiners
2020-11-042020-11-04Bibliographically approved