THE IMPACT OF MOBILE-ASSISTED LANGUAGE LEARNING (MALL) ON STUDENTS’ SPEAKING FLUENCY AND AUTONOMY

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) on students’ speaking fluency and autonomy among English Education students at Universitas PGRI Palembang. The rapid development of mobile technology has reshaped language learning practices, offering learners greater flexibility, accessibility, and personalization. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 150 second-year English majors through a structured questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. The findings reveal that smartphones are the most frequently used devices for autonomous English learning, while applications such as Duolingo, Cake, and ELSA Speak are the most preferred tools for enhancing speaking skills and vocabulary development. The study further shows that MALL significantly improves students’ speaking fluency, pronunciation accuracy, and learning motivation by providing interactive and self-paced learning opportunities. Additionally, students reported that MALL fosters learner autonomy by encouraging self-regulation, independent practice, and confidence in speaking English. Despite these advantages, challenges such as inconsistent learner engagement, limited technological access, and the need for pedagogical integration remain. Overall, the study underscores that MALL, when effectively implemented, can serve as a powerful complement to traditional language teaching, promoting both communicative competence and autonomous learning in the digital era.