Mobile learning for less-commonly taught languages: design and application

The increasing development of emerging technologies contributes to ubiquitous and personalized language learning. Hence this study reported a project of designing and applying mobile learning for a less-commonly taught language, Fijian language, at a university in China. Guided by the natural approach and the immersion method of foreign language learning, and principles of multimedia learning, a Fijian language learning application was designed and applied, involving creating a Fijian language environment via situational simulation and offering sufficient language practice and immediate feedback based on speech evaluation and adaptive learning. The rationale, course design, technology support, along with students’ Fijian learning experiences gauged from a questionnaire and an online group interview are documented and discussed. Learners reported increased interest, improvements in spoken communication and learner autonomy. The study will yield implications to future mobile language learning resources design and the pedagogy of integrating the application into teaching and learning of foreign languages.