An AI-Powered Mobile-Assisted Language Learning: A Systematic Review
Abstract
There has been increasing interest in mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) across various age groups and educational settings due to its emerging innovations in mobile technology. These innovations have provided more learning opportunities and made language learning more accessible through mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. In addition, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology into education is growing and enhancing the affordances and outcomes of learning. However, only a few studies have explored how AI has been incorporated into informal learning contexts using mobile devices for adult L2 English learners compared to conventional MALL approaches. Using PRISMA guidelines and affordance theory, this systematic review provides an overview of the trends in the integration of AI into mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) in informal learning contexts for adult L2 English learners. This systematic review focused on keywords related to mobile learning, artificial intelligence, and English as a second language. In order to identify relevant articles meeting the research purposes, this study established specific inclusion and exclusion criteria and conducted abstract and full-text screenings. The selected articles (n=50) were analyzed using thematic analysis using affordance theory. The findings show that the new features of AI have enhanced the affordances of MALL by integrating them with existing features, such as empowering autonomous learning scaffolded by AI and fostering greater engagement through human-AI interaction. Our findings provide new insights into how AI may assist adult L2 English learners in informal contexts using MALL.