MALL language learning outcomes: A comprehensive meta-analysis 1994–2019

Abstract The aim of this study is to comprehensively evaluate quantitative experimental mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) studies published between 1994 and 2019 that meet minimal conditions research design statistical analysis. Starting with a bibliographical database 1,144 references MALL implementations, which there were 700 objectively substantiated by outcomes, only 84 met the inclusion requirements. Their analysis addresses two critical sets questions. First, what are general characteristics selected and, second, their outcomes in terms measured effect size. Nine considered: publication source, chronological distribution, country origin, institutional environment, sample size, intervention duration, targeted language, learner competence level, focus. Effect size was calculated separately for between-group (independent, experimental) within-group (quasi-experimental) treatment studies. In both cases, overall results quite large: 0.72 former 1.16 latter. An four moderator variables (language area focus, duration) revealed similarly large sizes. Notwithstanding, data also confirmed obvious bias very high level heterogeneity frequently approached 100%. relevance positive outcome conclusions thus needs be tempered these shortcomings.