Innovation in Language Learning

In the educational process of the Republic of Kazakhstan based on the Governmental policy of acquisition of three languages – Kazakh, Russian and English new methods of teaching languages different from the traditional ones such as distance learning, e-learning and m-learning have emerged. M-learning (mobile learning) is a modern technology that provides training using mobile devices and is a relatively new for Kazakhstan. Despite large number of various mobile language-learning applications worldwide there is no any mobile application for learning English in Kazakhstan. The main advantage of learning language with the help of mobile applications is that they make the process fast, intuitive, interactive and motivational. Mobile devices can be used anywhere and anytime, and they attract students, i.e. young people who may have lost interest in education. Mobile applications for learning English will definitely expand the horizons of students in their professional life. Thus, the expediency of using mobile application in training at University is obvious. In this respect we decided to introduce m-learning at West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov State Medical University by developing a specialized mobile application for learning Medical English for students and teachers of the University. We aim to increase motivation to learn English and effectiveness of educational process, achieve the required level of English, form sociocultural and professional competence of students and develop teachers' competences in teaching subjects in English. The article consists of the results of survey conducted at our University to identify the relation of potential users of the mobile application for learning Medical English, their expectations and needs. Expected results of mobile application implementation are increase in effectiveness of educational process through individualization and intensification, teachers’ competence in teaching subjects in English. By the end of the project students using the mobile application will have high motivation to learn English, gain the required level of English, socio-cultural and professional competence.

Keywords: m-learning, mobile application, Medical English, Kazakhstan, survey;