Mobile Devices in EFL Teaching in Saudi Arabia: A Comparison of Student and Faculty Attitudes and Usage

Abstract

There is a paucity of studies comparing student and faculty skills and attitudes regarding the use of mobile devices in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction, particularly in the Gulf region. This study investigated the skills and attitudes of students and their instructors regarding the use of mobile devices in English language learning at a university in Saudi Arabia. Ownership patterns for mobile devices were found to be different between students and faculty members, with students owning proportionally more smartphones than faculty members. Significant differences were found between student and faculty members with respect to computer, Internet and mobile device skills. Faculty members rated themselves higher than students for a number of computer and Internet skills, while students rated themselves higher than faculty members for a range of mobile device skills. In general, student and faculty member attitudes towards using mobile devices in English language learning were similar and positive. Both students and faculty members also expressed positive sentiments about their future intentions to use mobile devices for English language learning. Mobile device skill was found not to be a significant determinant in either attitudes towards mobile devices or future intention to use mobile devices in English language learning.

Keywords: mobile devices, student attitudes, faculty attitudes, English as a Foreign Language, higher education