Negative Effects of MALL on the Improvement of Learners Autonomy and Motivation

Abstract

Although MALL (Mobile Assisted Language Learning) cannot be con-sidere dasalatest platform in EFL(English as a Foreign Language)learning, there seems to be lack of information regarding its effects on learners’ autonomy and motivation. The present study aims to analyze the effects of MALL on learners’ autonomy and motivation. In order to obtain the results, there spondents are di-videdin to experimental and control classes. While the experimental classis given MALL integrated English lessons, the control classis given traditional learning sessions. Aset of questionnaires adapted from Taguchi, Magid&Papi (2009) and Cotterall (1999) was given before and after treatment. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted to provide deeper insights of matter. The results sug gest that MALL seems to impact learners’ autonomy and motivation negatively. Nevertheless, it does not mean that MALL is not without meritsas respondent ssuggest that they use mobile phones to look up for the meaning of ‘difficult’ phrases or subjects they did not understan. However, respondents prefer to be guided by teachers instead of being autonomous learners. The results of present study suggest that being an autonomous and motivated learner is something that needs to instilled since early stage of language learning. Besides that, teachers have important roles in instilling learners’ motivation and autonomy. Thus, providing teachers with sufficient trainings that will help teachers to instill llearn-ers’ motivation and autonomy.