Supplementing mobile-assisted language learning with reflective journal writing: a case study of Duolingo users’ metacognitive awareness

Abstract

Mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) has witnessed an explosion of interest from consumers and researchers. However, consumers often complain about the limited functionality of MALL applications, which typically do not allow for critical self-reflection or for users to consider different aspects of their learning such as the task itself, the strategies they use, and the challenges they face. Scholars, meanwhile, have argued that MALL research is frequently not grounded in theory, leading to problems with connecting theory and practice. The current study addresses these issues. Drawing upon metacognition theory, this study investigates the implementation of a weekly reflective e-journal writing activity in addition to learners’ engagement with the MALL application Duolingo. Over a five-week span, the researcher conducted a case study with six learners, exploring: how the addition of a weekly e-journal activity aided students’ metacognitive awareness of aspects of L2 learning; students’ perceptions of using reflection journals with MALL; and users’ experience with MALL and Duolingo in general. The findings show the journals aided students’ metacognitive awareness in five domains, and learners generally reported finding the activity beneficial and enjoyable. Implications are discussed for future research and pedagogy regarding the combination of reflective journaling activities with MALL.

Keywords:

• Feedback
• learner strategies
• metacognitive awareness
• mobile
• writing

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Notes on contributor

Matt Kessler is Assistant Professor of Applied Linguistics at the University of South Florida’s Department of World Languages. Matt’s research focuses on issues related to second language writing and computer-assisted language learning. His research has appeared in journals such as Journal of Second Language Writing, Language Teaching Research, Language Learning, and System.

Appendix

Example Reflection Journal (Template)

Your name:_____________________________

Your email address:_____________________________

What language are you learning?_____________________________

Reflection Journal

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