The effect of QR code assisted mobile learning environment on productive vocabulary learning in foreign language studies and student reviews: The example of Mobile Dictionary

The aim of this study is to identify the reviews and responds of the students related to a mobile online dictionary software via smart phones and qr code on active vocabulary learning. In this study, not only an example usage of both qr code and mobile devices in foreign language learning is represented but also the effect of this envisaged learning environment on active vocabulary learning is determined by qualitative and quantitative methods.The research is performed with the mixed method in which both qualitative and quantitative data is collected and analyzed together. Total of 50 students (25 in the first and 25 in the second group) from Gazi University School of Foreign Languages Department of Modern Languages Intermediate Class in spring semester of 2010-2011 academic year are attended. All of the students learned the vocabulary of their coursebook via an online dictionary program named `Mobil Sözlük? during 22 class hours.The qualitative data of this research is obtained by ?active vocabulary knowledge academic success test? of which validity and reliability tests are performed. Paired sample t-test is used for qualitative data analysis while semi-structured interview forms and student reviews data collection forms are used for quantitative data collection. Findings are dealt in accordance with the basic aims of this research, the frequencies and the percent values of open-ended questions are explained with tables and all of these are interpreted in relation with literature evidence. Data collected from the interviews are used to increase the validity of the quantitative data. Also, in the analysis of these quantitative data, categorization method is used.According to the results of the quantitative data of the students? detailed reviews and thoughts about mobile environment; Mobil Sözlük can be effectively and voluminously used to increase the active vocabulary capacities of preparatory class students. In the content of Mobil Sözlük, the words are given with their all different forms so the time the students use to search for a new word decreased. Considering the satisfied students, the usage of mobile devices to reach Mobil Sözlük contributes the increase of individual learning speed and provided the freedom of learning new words independently from the instructor. On the other hand, it is monitored that the students sometimes are badly affected because of the technical difficulties in mobile devices. The QR Code used in the learning environment reveals the keypad problems on mobile devices and made reaching Besides, the QR Code decreased the spatial distance between the printed coursebook and online learning material (Mobil Sözlük) so the mobile devices can be used in in-class activities efficiently. The students indicated that they want QR Code assisted learning environments in other lessons, too.According to the research findings it is found out that there is a statistically meaningful difference between the pretest and posttest averages of the students in both groups in mobile assisted foreign language learning environment. It is also determined that there is an increase in productive vocabulary knowledge of the students due to the usage of mobile assisted foreign language learning environment that is used in-class activities. Student reviews are also qualified to support this result.Keywords: Productive vocabulary learning, mobile learning, Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL), QR code