The Impacts of Language Learning Apps on Students’ Perceptions of Language Proficiency

Technology has transformed ESL education to meet the current demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Malaysia Higher Education Framework 4.0. This study examined how language learning apps impact students’ perceptions of their language proficiency and how these perceptions affect their language learning experience. The study used surveys in the form of questionnaires with ESL learners in a Malaysian public university. The findings revealed that Duolingo is the most popular app among participants, with high satisfaction. Furthermore, language apps motivated and engaged students, primarily through personalised learning and social interaction. However, concerns were reported among participants, such as limited speaking practice and technical issues when technology was used in their learning. Nevertheless, most participants reported increased self-confidence in using English and actively tracking their language progress through these language-learning apps. In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into commonly used language apps among students and student perceptions towards how these apps affect their language learning. While these apps show promise in ESL education, addressing challenges is crucial for their effective use in language education. These insights can inform strategies and curriculum design, contributing to language proficiency and global development goals in Malaysian higher education’s ESL teaching and learning landscape.