Dra. Badilla-Quintana, María Graciela

2014, Dra. Badilla-Quintana, María Graciela, Sepúlveda-Valenzuela, Eileen, Careaga-Butter, Marcelo

Mobile devices are efficient tools of language learning since they enable students to learn and practice anywhere and anytime with personalized content and progress. The article analyzes the incorporation of the use of mobile devices for teaching English as a second language in higher education. This research was developed on a positivist paradigm, with a descriptive and quantitative methodology. The sample was formed by 32 students of Basic English courses belong to DUOC UC Institute, in Chile who practice their writing skills through systematic activities developed during 2013 in the Virtual Platform Blackboard. The results of this study suggest that students reacted positively to the use of technology, but expressed concern about the technological difficulties. Main findings confirm that the use of technology enables student's practice of English, transforming and improving the learning environment inside of the classroom and students feel comfortable and secure because they have a teacher and technology's support.

2014, Dra. Badilla-Quintana, María Graciela, Careaga-Butter, Marcelo, Sepúlveda-Valenzuela, Eileen

Incremental Prototyping Method is an engineering methodology which is presented as appropriate to collect progressive contributions of users and experts of technological solutions that are designed to meet educational challenges. This paper presents the design process that is based on four circuits: theoretical, pedagogical, and technological and management. These circuits involved experts from different disciplines such as; computer engineering, computer science education, graphic design and communication and education. Results show educational platforms which are the result of a recurring review process of the developed technological products and the inclusion of quality standards. That ensures the usability of the product; this means that the product must be coherent and consistent with the educational purpose for which it was initially required.