With the vast advancement in technology, learning second or foreign language has been made easier. In the article 'Enhancing Vocabulary with the use of Mobile Technology', Deanna Nisbet and Dayna Austin highlighted a few apps to be used for adult learners in learning second language. According to Nisbet and Austin, smart phones and tablets are effective tools to be used by adult learners to learn English. Software program, or apps, can be downloaded to these tools and the mobility of the tools makes learning the language easier now than ever. The new technologies should be incorporate in adult learners' learning so that they are up to date in term of knowledge as well as skills.
The benefits of using these tools include opportunities for increased learner's autonomy and choice. These helps students to be able to learn language even without the presence of a teacher. Apart from that, the transferability of skills to other areas is also another benefit of learning English with these medium. It helps in the sense that English, as we all know, is a universal language. Therefore, the idea that English is used beyond the classroom walls is important. Students are more likely to be confident in using the language as well. The immediate feedback that the learners received also benefits them. It is also easier to track progress of learners self-selected goals. For instance, a learner set goals to be able to pronounce a number of words correctly. Using suitable apps, the learners can practice their pronunciations.
The article has compiled recommended applications that can be utilised for vocabulary teaching and learning. In learning vocabulary, there are two types of apps suitable to be used, namely dictionary apps and translation apps. By using dictionary apps such as Dictionary.com, learners are no longer required to carry heavy large dictionaries to ease learning. In fact, Dictionary.com also provided numerous functions such as the availability of thesaurus as well as a voice note to listen to the correct pronunciation. Translation apps, on the other hand, are also abundant. However, learners need to choose a reliable apps. Apps such as English Launchpad is a multipurpose language apps that offer a lot of activities such as flash cards, quiz generators and many more. Clear Speech App is based on Cambridge University to help students to improve their listening skills as well as refining their own pronunciation.
The article focuses on specifically on adult learners. Since younger learners are more likely to learn a second language in school, it differs for adult learners. Adult learners learn the language not in the conventional way. Apart from that, the language ego of adult learners is bigger than young learners. Therefore, the use of apps could ease their attempt to master the language. The apps mentioned in the article are only a few examples. There are many other apps that can be used. Some are free and some need to be paid a small amount of money. However, the idea of having apps to enhance vocabulary is due to the mobility and usability of the apps to the adult learners.
