Mobile learning perception in the context of COVID-19: An empirical study of saudi EFL majors

The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a complete closure of face-to-face instruction in Saudi Arabia as well as in many parts of the world. This closure has augmented the focus on online learning and imposes a shift from traditional instruction to digital learning. In light of this context, this article attempts to explore the perception of Saudi students of mobile learning as one main form of digital learning that arises amid COVID-19 crisis. The rationale beyond selecting mobile learning in particular is due to the fact that mobile telephony has deeply been penetrating the whole world to the extent that it interferingly touches every aspect of life; education is no exception. This paper, therefore, investigates the extent to which mobile learning is effective in the process of learning English as a foreign language during COVID-19 pandemic, and within the Saudi EFL context. Two overarching research questions are addressed here. First, to what extent is mobile learning an effective substitution for traditional instruction? Second, what are the benefits and/or challenges of using mobile learning in the Saudi EFL context amid COVID-19 pandemic? Results reveal positive attitudinal perception of the use and application of mobile learning in the process of learning EFL courses, which, in turn, serves to accentuate the effective role of applying modern technologies in learning, particularly in time of emergencies, and is further anticipated to foreground for a complete shift towards a dominant digital learning.