Innovation in Language Learning

When many authors were referring to radio and television as ‘new media’ some years ago, little did they realize that a group of media, will later emerge that will sooner be termed ‘newer’. The new development is about the adoption of mobile phones. These trends have emerged in many social contexts including participation in social networks, changes in the traditional communication habits and exhibition of unanticipated behaviours resulting from mobile communication. Algeria, like every other nation is not relenting her efforts in moving with time. When mobile phones first came into Algeria, many felt it will wipe off the telecommunications company which was statutorily on ground, today, the technology is making life easy for young and old.

This study is an addition to the relevant literatures on media research especially the accommodation of ubiquitous technologies on Algerian campuses. It will draw attention to the ways Algerian students use mobile phones and investigate attitudes about mobile phone usage in public settings. Although, it might look as if nothing new is been described that is not common in other settings, this seem to be the first time that the youth will take the lead in the adoption of an innovation in Algeria, leaving the trend unexplainable to the adults.

It started with a discussion on the features of phones and moves to present some literature relevant to mobile phone usage. The study found out that students make use of phones everywhere including restricted spaces like banking halls, cars and lecture rooms. Some confessed to causing accidents on campus because they were engaging phones while driving. The study however recommends educational discussions on mobile phones to enhance students’positive and moderate usage of the technology.