The Attitudes and Perceptions of Saudi EFL Learners Toward Using English Language Learning Mobile Apps for Learning English

Abstract

This study investigated the views of Saudi EFL students toward using English Language Learning Mobile Apps (MELLA) to learn English. A quantitative approach consisting of questionnaires was used to collect data from eighty-nine participants who shared their attitudes and perceptions about MELLAs. Questionnaire items were rated on a Likert scale which ranged from “Strongly Disagree” (1, very low) to “Strongly Agree” (5, very high). Mean Likert scale scores were used to evaluate participants’ responses. The study found that Saudis’ perceptions of MELLA exceeded their attitudes. Moreover, gender differences were found in Saudis’ attitudes toward the use of MELLA. The highest-ranking female attitude mean scores were observed on items related to pronunciation, dictionary, and listening apps while the highest-ranking male attitude mean scores were related to dictionary, listening, and vocabulary apps. Furthermore, the Saudis’ mean score for MELLA perception was higher than the mean score for MELLA attitude. Results also show that females have a higher perception than males. Finally, minor gender differences regarding MELLA perception were also found; the highest female mean scores were based on easiness and flexibility in the use of apps while males highly perceived the convenience of using an app anywhere and at any time as being most important to them.