Incidental language and culture learning through mobile technologies: a multi-case study

Abstract Incidental learning is a human paradigm that takes its form as response to unplanned initiatives, potentially occurring at any time and place. It emerging very promising in the case of second language, it multiplies occurrence unexpected unintentional situations. Still open, subject debate, issue which right methodology be applied when mobile computer-based technologies are exploited provide support such kind paradigm. Drawing on results an international Project (ILOCALAPP), this paper we our reflections specific incidental have adopted, based use application (the UniOn! App) was developed University Bologna mobility students their daily activities. Our main goal understand if approach effective let individuals incidentally learn Italian language culture driven by application, while conducting informal Specifically, aimed measure how much learned Italian, means self-evaluation self-assessment tools statistical analysis, involving 95 who improve skills, supported app. In particular, adopted quasi-experimental design, focused investigation four different dimensions: target users, users’ background, duration frequency use, context use. The participants were grouped into 5 studies, dimensions. After having used app, asked answer survey. obtained confirm viability approach, showing enhanced certain conditions (i.e., integrated guidance) met, where more than 55% reported confident about acquired skills.