Innovation in Language Learning

The potentials of using telecom for language learning are diverse and yet can be extended in different countries according to the local social situation. Language learning through mobile communication is significant in a country where mobile penetration rate is among the highest in the world. This paper describes how Iranian people perceive and use a social network named 'viber' instead of less accessible social media and discovers the most recurring themes in Iranian users' interactions through this type of mobile language learning. Firstly, a content analysis of language learning aspects of a group of mobile users was conducted and the most recurring themes were then used as a basis of questions for finding whether the same themes recur within larger population and more groups. A questionnaire was developed based on the most frequent contents and uses and finally few participants were interviewed to confirm the results. This paper concludes that the social potential of the local mobile networks provides a unique opportunity for language learning and speaking a foreign language where other types of language input such as real-life communication and interaction are limited due to slim tourism and sanctioned foreign commerce.