Developing smartphone-based learning application to support students’ autonomous learning for junior high school level

Abstract

In today’s digital era, the integration of mobile technology into English learning has become an essential learning medium for EFL students. Therefore, the study is intended to develop a smartphone-based learning application to support students’ autonomous learning for junior high school level. The study employs research & development (R & D) with the steps: need analysis and problem identification, designing and implementing products, and product evaluation. The data was collected through interviews for need analysis, expert validation, and questionnaires from 3 English lecturers and 28 seventh-grade students for field testing. Data were gathered following the ADDIE Model steps. The research findings showed that the implementation of a smartphone-based learning application proved effective and valid. The average ratings for the feasibility assessment by media and material specialists were 4.73 and 4.77, respectively, and were both classified as very feasible. The average practicality score was 4.10. This suggests that the application is viable. Students' answers also demonstrate that the activities help them understand descriptive passages, the content is presented effectively, and the application is visually appealing. Therefore, the developed application is effective as a learning tool for supporting autonomous learning of descriptive text material and is practicable in terms of content, media, and practicality. The English teachers are recommended to use this app in the learning process to support the students’ autonomous learning in the classroom.