The Sharing Economy in CSL Classroom: mLang - a New Approach of Using IT to Assist Second Language Learning

Abstract

<p>Second language learners mainly rely on their teachers and the pre-designed textbooks to facilitate their learning. However, due to the diversify language proficiency and interests of the students, teachers always find such learning materials cannot address individual student’s learning needs. Inspired by the idea of sharing economy, and the application of information technology, teachers and students can create personalised learning materials and then share among the group. Such collectively developed learning materials are then being used to support peer-to-peer learning through a self-developed online platform named “mLang”. Results of pre- and post-tests and student questionnaire found that students’ learning motivation and second language proficiency have significant improvement after using mLang and related pedagogies supported by second language learning theories for one year. This chapter reports the design of mLang, the online learning platform, how it works and the implementation of related pedagogies.</p>