Research centre
Communication and Computing Research Centre

Date
2013- current

Research Degree Project

The aim of this research project is to investigate the potential of mobile technologies to provide English language support for international students in Higher Education.

We intend to use a learner-centred approach whereby a technology-based implementation can effectively address their main needs and requirements. The research will investigate the kind of technologies being used for supporting international students who might face language barriers. Also, how those technologies are being used and what their current results are. Moreover, we acknowledge that experience also lies with academic staff supporting international students. Therefore, the project will engage with staff too.

A participatory design approach is suggested, through which students' needs and requirements, as well as staff experience are explored and incorporated into a technology-based intervention.

The nature and extent of the collaboration will be agreed among interested parties but may include needs assessment, analysis of existing support strategies and associated technologies, as well as designing, prototyping and evaluation of the intervention.

By collaboratively working with relevant stakeholders, the research is expected to produce an intervention that is appropriate, sustainable, and applicable in the context of Sheffield Hallam University, while also contributing to the body knowledge in this field.

Project Supervisors

• Dr Elizabeth Uruchurtu (Director of Study)
• Dr Frances Slack (Second Supervisor)

Researchers involved

Afsaneh Tafazzoli Moghaddam - Research Degree Student