Effectiveness of Language Learning Apps in Developing English Macro Skills of College Students
Daisy Mae Labasano, Melvin Salas, Emma Labunog
Received: 10 September 2025; Revised: 15 January 2026; Accepted: 24 January 2026; Published: 24 January 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.66074/NU65MI43
Abstract
This qualitative case study examined how college students perceived the contribution of language learning applications to English macro skill development in a Philippine private college context. The study took place at Iligan Medical Center College and involved ten purposively selected college students who actively used at least one language learning application as part of their English learning routine. Data came from semi-structured interviews and an open-ended questionnaire, with audio recorded interviews transcribed verbatim prior to analysis. Thematic analysis yielded four themes that map directly onto the macro skills: (1) speaking skill development through pronunciation practice and voice recording tools, (2) writing skill development through sentence construction, grammar exercises, and translation tasks, (3) reading skill development through exposure to varied text types and comprehension tasks, and (4) listening skill development through audio drills, dialogues, and listening comprehension tests. In aggregate, participants framed these applications as accessible environments for repetitive practice, immediate feedback, and self-paced skill refinement outside class. The findings support the view that mobile learning tools can extend opportunities for practice across macro skills, while also underscoring the need for rigorous program level integration and evaluation beyond self-report, especially when commercial applications shape learning routines.
Keywords: English proficiency, language learning apps, mobile learning, qualitative case study
Author Information: Iligan Medical Center College, Iligan City, Philippines; [email protected]
Volume 2, Issue 2, June 2026