Smartphones in EFL Education: Enhancing or Hindering Writing Competencies?
摘要
This research examines the complex effects of mobile applications on the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) writing skills of Level 4 Foundation students at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Ibri, Oman. It discusses the positive and negative effects of technology on language acquisition. Quantitatively, it evaluates the use of translation aids, grammar checkers, and vocabulary enhancers. The results show that although these applications can enhance some features of writing, such as vocabulary building and grammatical correctness, they also have the dangers of creating dependency, which can detract from more meaningful learning. The results demonstrate broad usage, with implications that both note the benefits of providing immediate linguistic support and indicate possible drawbacks by hindering the development of independent writing skills. The current research does, therefore, introduce some balance into the understanding of the role of technology in EFL education, offering critical insights into how to integrate digital tools effectively without creating dependence, hence giving meaning to teaching strategies and further research directions within the fast-evolving field of language education.