Advocating the inclusion of older adults in digital language learning technology and research: Some considerations

Acceptance and engagement patterns of mobile-assisted language learning among non-conventional adult L2 learners: A survival analysis

“…First, we expanded the scope of the population to encompass more diverse profiles of L2 learners, including less-often-researched older adults (i.e., nonuniversity students) from various backgrounds. It is essential to consider a wide range of individuals with distinct needs and motivations within the broader MALL context (Puebla & García, 2022). This is particularly important because technology has not only expanded the landscape of language learning beyond traditional classrooms (Reinders & Benson, 2017) but also because the "lifelong mobility of MALL" (Stockwell, 2022) has transformed language learning into a continuous lifelong endeavor, rather than a pursuit confined to a specific point in one's lifetime (e.g., schooling).…”

“…Given that 78.4% of our participants already held at least a 4-year degree, their L2 learning settings might differ from those of currently enrolled university students (cf. Puebla & García, 2022). L2 learners in educational institutions might have access to more diverse L2 learning resources (e.g., regular language courses provided by the university) or be driven by external regulations (e.g., grades, course requirements).…”

Understanding the Interaction between Technology and the Learner: The Case of DLL

“…Puebla, Fievet, Tsopanidi and Clahsen (2021) showed that, because of the cognitive and physical changes (e.g., declines in memory and vision), older adults are more resistant to the use of DLL tools, especially mobile applications. Puebla and Garcia (2021) further comment on the need of tech companies as well as instructional designers to develop DLL products that accommodate older learners' abilities, attitudes, needs, preferences, expectations, and learning practices. We agree completely with this call for attention to an increasingly large and important population, especially given the rapid pace of aging in our societies (e.g., by United Nations' estimate, the population aged 65 or older will grow to over 300 million by 2040 in China; World Health Organization and the US National Institute on Aging, 2011).…”

Digital tools for learning new languages: Benefits and limitations

“…Caldwell-Harris (2022) illustrates how contextualization and VR may create interesting learning environments. Two commentaries point to the needs of previously neglected potential users of DLL applications, Puebla and García (2022) to older adults and Ma and Yan (2022) to high-performance young students. Finally, two commentators raise additional perspectives for DLL, Chen (2022) notes the potential benefits of robot-assisted language learning and MacWhinney (2022) calls for a shared platform for collaborations between technology developers and L2 researchers.…”