Cell phone video recording feature as a language learning tool: A case study

This paper reports on a case study conducted at a Japanese national university. Nine participants used the video recording feature on their cell phones to produce weekly video productions. The task required that participants produce one 30-second video on a teacher-selected topic. Observations revealed the process of video creation with a cell phone. The weekly video performances indicated that students were able to increase the number of words they spoke in one monologue. The surveys indicated that participants believed that using the cell phone video recording feature was a useful activity. However, they did not believe that such a task was transferable to other courses. The discussion emphasizes that, due to technological advances, educators need to understand the benefits and challenges of integrating cell phone devices as learning tools in their classrooms. In addition, whereas in the past researchers focused on reading and writing skills, this article reveals that it is now possible to use the video recording feature to evaluate learners’ speaking skills.

► Document possibility of using cell phone video recording feature as a learning tool.
► Nine Japanese undergraduates produced thirteen 30-second videos on selected topics.
► Data collection included: questionnaire, video performances and production diaries.
► Data reports increase in the amount of spoken words at time 2 compared to time 1.
► Feedback reveals cell phone video recording feature was a useful learning tool.