한국어 교육용 애플리케이션 연구: 모바일 앱을 중심으로

Abstract

This study is an analysis of Korean educational mobile applications to examine the quality of the current apps available, and suggest what effective Korean educational mobile apps should contain. Mobile applications are software that can be downloaded to computers, tablets or smartphones. Korean language applications provide a service that allows students of the language to study at their own convenience. This study focused on six language applications that are currently available on both Android and iOS platforms for smartphone users. The six applications were chosen based on the high number of downloads and positive reviews. The study of Korean language applications is needed to gain a better understanding of the apps that are currently available for Korean language learners. The technical characteristics, mobile learning functions and educational content of the apps were evaluated thoroughly. After selecting six apps, I created an evaluation form for 10 language experts to select the two most effective apps for language learners. Next, I made a satisfaction survey for the two apps. 94 students used the apps for two weeks and took the satisfaction survey. The students opinions were compiled and reviewed. This information was used to suggest what effective Korean language apps should contain. The use of mobile applications are still new in the field of language education. There has been little research regarding their effectiveness as tools of language acquisition. This study is meaningful because it provides a thorough evaluation of apps that are currently available; not only by language experts, but also by students who are currently learning the language. I hope this thesis can be a help to Korean educational mobile application developers.

＊Key words: Korean educational mobile applications, Evaluation, Satisfaction survey