A REVIEW ON THE USE OF MOBILE APPS IN ENHANCING VOCABULARY ACQUISITION FOR LANGUAGE STUDENTS

Abstract

This research seeks to determine the efficiency of mobile applications as tools for acquiring vocabulary especially within language learning environment. It also examines the impact of these tools on the teaching processes and interaction with the audience, as well as the resulting learning effect obtained with their help. This review is based on existing empirical studies and meta-analyses conducted within the last decade. The inclusion criteria when selecting the research focused on the definition of vocabulary, methodological quality, and the variety of mobile applications in the studies. An emphasis on the use of qualitative research was considered, and the data was collected from academic databases and peer-reviewed journals. The study shows mobile apps greatly help in increasing vocabulary learning by promoting interactivity, usability, and contextualized learning. Particularly when using the techniques like gamification, spaced repetition, and multimedia the apps are seen to demonstrate higher engagement and retention of the users. In addition, different with conventional teaching modalities, enhancing mobile apps enable learners to learn interactively and continually. Additionally, it was evident that mobile applications are handy in facilitating word acquisition, providing significant enhancements over conventional ways. These vary in the way they are presented, allows for quick feedback and learning, and can incorporate real life contexts. The study recommends that the mainstream integration of mobile apps in language learning contexts should be factored so as to unlock such benefits. Also, the developers of the apps should enhance designs and features that would make the apps much more engaging and grounded in research. Further research will need to look into long-term mobile app impacts on vocabulary mastery and future work should investigate how mobile applications can be incorporated with other learning technologies to form a more complex learning environment.