MOBILE-ASSISTED LANGUAGE LEARNING IN ENGLISH TEACHING: EVIDENCE FROM TRANSCARPATHIAN TEACHERS

Abstract

Recent decades have witnessed profound changes in education through the integration of digital technologies, with mobile learning (m-learning) and mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) emerging as central components of modern language pedagogy. This study investigates the role of MALL in Transcarpathia, a multilingual and socio-culturally diverse region where mobile devices often serve as the primary gateway to digital education. Employing a mixed-methods design, the research combined a literature review with an empirical survey of 30 foreign language teachers working across primary, secondary, and higher education institutions. Findings reveal near-universal device ownership (96.7% of respondents claimed to have at least one digital device), and classroom internet access with mobile technologies widely used for vocabulary acquisition, listening comprehension, interactive exercises, and communication with students. Teachers generally perceive MALL as effective, citing increased engagement, autonomy, and personalized learning opportunities. At the same time, integration remains largely supplementary, reinforcing rather than replacing traditional methods. The study also highlights differences between novice and experienced teachers, with younger educators reporting greater ease in adopting mobile tools, while more experienced colleagues expressed the need for additional methodological support. Aiming to situate MALL within the unique sociolinguistic realities of Transcarpathia, this research contributes context-sensitive insights into how mobile technologies function in multilingual and resource-constrained classrooms. It underscores the importance of targeted teacher training, inclusive practices, and institutional support to ensure equitable access and meaningful integration. Recommendations are made for future longitudinal and experimental studies to evaluate long-term impacts, assess the effectiveness of specific mobile applications, and develop evidence-based strategies for sustainable implementation.