Abstract

This study examined medical students' usage and acceptance of mobile-assisted English learning (MAEL) in a Chinese context. 184 medical students with varying levels of English proficiency, from beginner to advanced, at a university in China participated in the study. A quantitative method was used in the study. A questionnaire on the acceptance of mobile learning was used to understand students' perceptions of mobile-assisted English studies. Descriptive analysis and one-way ANOVA were employed to examine differences among three groups of medical students with varying levels of English competence. The results suggested that medical students' acceptance of mobile-assisted English learning was positively associated with their English proficiency. Medical students with advanced English proficiency achieved the highest scores. There were significant differences among the three groups of medical students with varying English proficiency in perceived usefulness, perceived easiness, perceived playfulness, perceived facilitating conditions, subjective norm, voluntariness, and image. Students' ages, possession of mobile devices, and perceptions of and obstacles to mobile-assisted English learning were also observed. Although medical students generally accepted mobile-assisted English learning, they reported several challenges. The findings of this study help understand the perceptions and challenges of mobile-assisted English learning among medical students with varying English levels, and promote the use of mobile-assisted English learning for English improvement and professional development.

Keywords

References

  1. [1] Lau, K.S., Lo, P., Chiu, D.K.W., et al., 2020. Library and learning experiences turned mobile: A comparative study between LIS and non-LIS students. The Journal of Academic Librarianship. 46(2), 102103. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acalib.2019.102103
  2. [2] Alvarez Martínez, J.A., Gómez, J.F., Restrepo Botero, J.C., 2025. Mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) for improving English language teaching and learning in higher education: A systematic literature review. Knowledge Management & E-Learning: An International Journal. 17(2), 258–277. DOI: https://doi.org/10.34105/j.kmel.2025.17.012
  3. [3] Yuan, Y., Harun, J., Wong, B.Y., et al., 2025. Technology-driven framework for college English courses: If and how mobile-assisted collaborative language learning affects EFL student engagement. SAGE Open. 15(2). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440251329687
  4. [4] Hakimi, M., Akrami, M., Ahrari, M., et al., 2024. The impact of mobile applications on Quran education: A survey of student performance and satisfaction. Journal of Digital Learning and Distance Education. 2(8), 722–736. DOI: https://doi.org/10.56778/jdlde.v2i8.220
  5. [5] Almegren, A., 2026. A systematic review of mobile-assisted language learning in Saudi EFL education: Trends, outcomes, and future directions (2015–2025). Arts for Linguistic & Literary Studies. 8(2), 608–626. DOI: https://doi.org/10.53286/5y1ja616
  6. [6] Wahyudi, M.R., Santosa, M.H., Indrayani, L., 2025. The influence of using MALL on EFL students' language learning. International Journal of Language Learning. 9(1), 93–105. DOI: https://doi.org/10.23887/ijll.v9i1.98091
  7. [7] Camilleri, M.A., Camilleri, A.C., 2023. Learning from anywhere, anytime: Utilitarian motivations and facilitating conditions for mobile learning. Technology, Knowledge and Learning. 28, 1687–1705. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10758-022-09608-8
  8. [8] Salhab, R., Daher, W., 2023. University students' engagement in mobile learning. European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education. 13(1), 202–216. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe13010016
  9. [9] Azizi, S.M., Khatony, A., 2019. Investigating factors affecting medical sciences students' intention to adopt mobile learning. BMC Medical Education. 19, 381. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-019-1831-4
  10. [10] Basturkmen, H., 2018. Dealing with language issues during subject teaching in EMI: The perspectives of two accounting lecturers. TESOL Quarterly. 52(3), 692–700. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/tesq.460
  11. [11] Karimnia, A., Khodashenas, M.R., 2018. Medical students' English language learning: Needs and perceptions. Sustainable Multilingualism. 13(1), 164–190. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/sm-2018-0016
  12. [12] Gaffas, Z.M., 2019. Students' perceptions of the impact of EGP and ESP courses on their English language development: Voices from Saudi Arabia. Journal of English for Academic Purposes. 42, 100797. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jeap.2019.100797
  13. [13] Li, Y., Heron, M., 2021. English for general academic purposes or English for specific purposes? Language learning needs of medical students at a Chinese university. Theory and Practice in Language Studies. 11(6), 621–631. DOI: https://doi.org/10.17507/tpls.1106.05
  14. [14] Grant, M.M., 2019. Difficulties in defining mobile learning: Analysis, design characteristics, and implications. Educational Technology Research and Development. 67, 361–388. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-018-09641-4
  15. [15] Quinn, C., 2000. mLearning: Mobile, Wireless, In-Your-Pocket Learning. Available from: https://marciaconner.com/linezine/2.1/features/cqmmwiyp.htm (cited 25 May 2026).
  16. [16] Winters, N., 2006. What is mobile learning? In: Sharples, M. (Ed.). Big Issues in Mobile Learning: Report of a Workshop by the Kaleidoscope Network of Excellence. Learning Sciences Research Institute: Nottingham, UK. pp. 4–8.
  17. [17] Kukulska-Hulme, A., 2005. Mobile usability and user experience. In: Traxler, J., Kukulska-Hulme, A. (Eds.). Mobile Learning: A Handbook for Educators and Trainers. Routledge: London, UK. pp. 45–56.
  18. [18] Singh, R., Singh, S.K., Mishra, N., 2026. Influence of mobile learning on students' performance in higher education institutions: A systematic literature review. International Journal of Information Science and Management. 24(1), 155–179. DOI: https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2025375.1438
  19. [19] Dutta, R., Mantri, A., Singh, G., 2022. Evaluating system usability of mobile augmented reality application for teaching Karnaugh maps. Smart Learning Environments. 9(1), 6. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40561-022-00189-8
  20. [20] Ghorbani, N., Ebadi, S., 2020. Exploring learners' grammatical development in mobile assisted language learning. Cogent Education. 7(1), 1704599. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2019.1704599
  21. [21] Al-Rahmi, A.M., Al-Rahmi, W.M., Alturki, U., et al., 2022. Acceptance of mobile technologies and M-learning by university students: An empirical investigation in higher education. Education and Information Technologies. 27(6), 7805–7826. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-022-10934-8
  22. [22] Dashtestani, R., 2016. Moving bravely towards mobile learning: Iranian students' use of mobile devices for learning English as a foreign language. Computer Assisted Language Learning. 29(7), 815–832. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2015.1069360
  23. [23] Chen, K.T.C., 2017. Examining EFL instructors' and students' perceptions and acceptance toward M-learning in higher education. Universal Access in the Information Society. 16(4), 967–976. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10209-016-0494-8
  24. [24] Önal, N., Çevik, K.K., Şenol, V., 2022. The effect of SOS Table learning environment on mobile learning tools acceptance, motivation and mobile learning attitude in English language learning. Interactive Learning Environments. 30(5), 834–847. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/10494820.2019.1690529
  25. [25] Hsieh, C.-N., 2024. Mobile-assisted language learning (MALL). In: Liontas, J.I. (Ed.). The TESOL Encyclopedia of English Language Teaching. John Wiley & Sons: Hoboken, NJ, USA. pp. 1–7. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118784235.eelt1053
  26. [26] Zhang, X., Hu, J., 2024. A study on the learning behaviors and needs of design-maker communities of practice in the era of mobile learning. Library Hi Tech. 42(2), 580–606. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/LHT-12-2021-0486
  27. [27] He, J., 2020. Construction of "three-stage asynchronous" instructional mode of blended flipped classroom based on mobile learning platform. Education and Information Technologies. 25, 4915–4936. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-020-10200-9
  28. [28] Zhang, X., Bi, J., 2018. Design of a college English mobile learning system based on CAD model. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning. 13(4), 139–149. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v13i04.8477
  29. [29] Zhao, M., Noordin, N., Ahmad, N.K., et al., 2026. Mobile-assisted oral English learning: Perceived impact and learner experience—A mixed-methods study. Asian-Pacific Journal of Second & Foreign Language Education. 11(1), 27. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40862-026-00402-y
  30. [30] Xu, Q., Peng, H., 2022. Exploring learner motivation and mobile-assisted peer feedback in a business English speaking course. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning. 38(4), 1033–1045. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/jcal.12660
  31. [31] Li, X., Song, S., 2018. Mobile technology affordance and its social implications: A case of "Rain Classroom". British Journal of Educational Technology. 49(2), 276–291. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.12586
  32. [32] Guo, M., Wang, M., 2018. Integrating WeChat-based mobile-assisted language learning into college English teaching. EAI Endorsed Transactions on e-Learning. 5(17), e6. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4108/eai.25-9-2018.155646
  33. [33] Fan, J., Wang, Z., 2025. The impact of gamified interaction on mobile learning APP users' learning performance: The moderating effect of users' learning style. Behaviour & Information Technology. 44(7), 1306–1319. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/0144929X.2020.1787516
  34. [34] Huang, H., 2018. Design and implementation of a college English listening learning system based on Android platform. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning. 13(7), 43–56. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v13i07.8779
  35. [35] Fernández-López, Á., Rodríguez-Fórtiz, M.J., Rodríguez-Almendros, M.L., et al., 2013. Mobile learning technology based on iOS devices to support students with special education needs. Computers & Education. 61, 77–90. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2012.09.014
  36. [36] Yu, Z., Zhu, Y., Yang, Z., et al., 2019. Student satisfaction, learning outcomes, and cognitive loads with a mobile learning platform. Computer Assisted Language Learning. 32(4), 323–341. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2018.1517093
  37. [37] Zhang, D., Wang, M., Wu, J.G., 2020. Design and implementation of augmented reality for English language education. In: Geroimenko, V. (Ed.). Augmented Reality in Education: A New Technology for Teaching and Learning. Springer: Cham, Switzerland. pp. 217–234. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-42156-4_12
  38. [38] Wang, X., Jing, J., Zhang, Y., 2025. Effects of the production-oriented approach-based mobile learning on learning outcomes, motivation, and satisfaction in EFL context. SAGE Open. 15(3). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440251357355
  39. [39] Kim, K.-J., 2019. Enhancing students' active learning and self-efficacy using mobile technology in medical English classes. Korean Journal of Medical Education. 31(1), 51–60. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3946/kjme.2019.118
  40. [40] Chase, T.J., Julius, A., Chandan, J.S., et al., 2018. Mobile learning in medicine: An evaluation of attitudes and behaviours of medical students. BMC Medical Education. 18, 152. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-018-1264-5
  41. [41] Golenhofen, N., Heindl, F., Grab-Kroll, C., et al., 2020. The use of a mobile learning tool by medical students in undergraduate anatomy and its effects on assessment outcomes. Anatomical Sciences Education. 13(1), 8–18. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1878
  42. [42] van Schaik, S., Plant, J., O'Sullivan, P., 2013. Promoting self-directed learning through portfolios in undergraduate medical education: The mentors' perspective. Medical Teacher. 35(2), 139–144. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3109/0142159X.2012.733832
  43. [43] Kelley, T.L., 1939. The selection of upper and lower groups for the validation of test items. Journal of Educational Psychology. 30(1), 17–24. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1037/h0057123
  44. [44] Nikolopoulou, K., 2018. Mobile learning usage and acceptance: Perceptions of secondary school students. Journal of Computers in Education. 5(4), 499–519. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40692-018-0127-8
  45. [45] Venkatesh, V., Davis, F.D., 2000. A theoretical extension of the technology acceptance model: Four longitudinal studies. Management Science. 46(2), 186–204. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.46.2.186.11926
  46. [46] Venkatesh, V., Morris, M.G., Davis, G.B., et al., 2003. User acceptance of information technology: Toward a unified view. MIS Quarterly. 27(3), 425–478. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2307/30036540
  47. [47] Qashou, A., 2021. Influencing factors in M-learning adoption in higher education. Education and Information Technologies. 26(2), 1755–1785. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-020-10323-z
  48. [48] Wenji, D., Charmi, M., Izadpanah, S., 2026. Development and evaluation of a mobile assisted pedagogical model to enhance academic enthusiasm learning and collaboration in EFL contexts. Scientific Reports. 16(1), 16243. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-46662-z
  49. [49] Mergany, N.N., Dafalla, A.-E., Awooda, E., 2021. Effect of mobile learning on academic achievement and attitude of Sudanese dental students: A preliminary study. BMC Medical Education. 21(1), 121. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-021-02509-x
  50. [50] Balaskas, S., Tsiantos, V., Chatzifotiou, S., et al., 2025. Navigating emotional barriers and cognitive drivers in mobile learning adoption among Greek university students. Knowledge. 5(4), 23. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/knowledge5040023
  51. [51] Baars, M., Khare, S., Ridderstap, L., 2022. Exploring students' use of a mobile application to support their self-regulated learning processes. Frontiers in Psychology. 13, 793002. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.793002
  52. [52] Ahmad, Z., Alvi, A., Safie, N., et al., 2026. Leveling up language learning: Mobile-assisted and gamification for empowering slow learners—A literature review. PeerJ Computer Science. 12, e3401. DOI: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj-cs.3401
  53. [53] Zhang, X., Lo, P., So, S., et al., 2021. Medical students' attitudes and perceptions towards the effectiveness of mobile learning: A comparative information-need perspective. Journal of Librarianship and Information Science. 53(1), 116–129. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0961000620925547

How to Cite

Menglin Liao, Wenhui Wang. Mobile-Assisted English Learning among Medical Students with Varying English Proficiency. Journal of Education and Learning Environments. 19 August 2026. https://doi.org/10.55121/jele.v2i2.101842
Citation formats

Copyright & License

Copyright © 2026 Menglin Liao, Wenhui Wang. Published by Japan Bilingual Publishing Co..

Article Metrics

481Abstract views
246Downloads