Developing an evaluation framework for vocabulary-learning apps

Mobile technology is one of the most important approaches to facilitating vocabulary learning. However, despite an increasing use of mobile devices for this purpose, there is currently no dedicated evaluation framework to examine whether the vocabulary-learning applications on the market are well designed. Building on prior research from the spheres of instructional design, educational technology, and vocabulary learning, this study developed a six-component evaluation framework for vocabulary-learning apps, consisting of learning tasks, goal clarity, feedback, strategy instruction, repetition, and instructional control. Then, this framework was used to review 30 apps aimed at teaching English vocabulary to non-native speakers, and to inform various recommendations for future app development.