Exploring the advantages and disadvantages of mobile applications on the development of listening skills.

Abstract

The use of mobile applications in the educational environment presents significant advantages, as students can improve various skills, in this case, their listening skills in English. This project aimed to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using mobile applications and their impact on the development of English listening skills, specifically among fourth-semester university students in the PINE major, as well as among teachers who have the opportunity to use mobile applications to enhance the learning and development process of listening skills. The main objectives of the study are to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of mobile applications in the development of listening skills, to identify perceptions of teachers and students about the use of mobile applications, and to provide recommendations for the effective integration of mobile applications. The methodology of this project included qualitative research, which provided clear results through open-ended interviews with both students and university teachers. The main findings of the research revealed that students prefer to combine traditional teaching methods with the use of mobile applications to improve their English listening skills, as this way they interact better both in the classroom and with their peers, and feel that learning is more enhancing and productive. This study concludes that while mobile applications can be a valuable tool for improving listening skills, it is crucial to integrate them in a balanced way with other pedagogical methods and to consider the individual needs and preferences of the students. Educators are recommended to adopt an integrated approach that combines the use of technology with traditional teaching techniques to maximize the benefits of listening skill development.