Improving College Students English Learning with Dr. Eye Android Mid

ABSTRACT

This paper investigates college students’ English language learning through use of Dr.eye Android handheld mobile Internet device (MID). Compared to related studies, students’ English learning using MIDs has not been evaluated and fully understood in the field of higher education. Quantitatively, the researchers used TOEIC pretest and posttest to collect and analyze students’ English performance; qualitatively, semi-structured group interviews were used to investigate student perspectives on using MIDs in learning English. Thirty-three participants completed a three-month intensive English course aiming to improve their English proficiency. The context of the tasks included collaborative development, general business, entertainment, finance and budgeting, manufacturing, and purchasing. Each task needed to be completed using the MID in class with instructions. Finally, ten participants participated in the semi-structured group interview. Results indicated that learning with an appropriate context designed in combination with the use of an MID yielded a significant improvement. The result showed that the educational background and teaching experience of the instructor was also a significant factor, as the quality of the instruction had a significant influence on student learning outcomes. This paper ends with further focus on the importance of using Bring Your Own Device activities (BYOD) in language learning and teaching.