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«500 VISITING SCHOLARS» SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT DEVELOPS MOBILE APPLICATION

A young scientist is developing a mobile application for learning English

Zaure Smailova, a recipient of the «500 Scientists» research internship program, is currently undergoing an internship at the University of Southern California, specializing in «Pedagogy».

Before arriving in sunny California, Zaure earned a master's degree in «Foreign Language Teacher Training» from Abylai Khan Kazakh University of International Relations and World Languages. Immediately after completing her master's degree in 2021, she was hired at Narxoz University, where she currently holds the position of senior lecturer. Zaure's scientific interests focus on researching innovative approaches to improving the quality of education, stimulating academic progress, and motivating students to learn foreign languages using modern technology.

An internship abroad is a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in international educational experience and study advanced teaching methods. According to Zaure, the «500 visiting scholars» internship inspires her not only to seek new approaches to teaching foreign languages but also to actively participate in the scientific community. As part of the internship, Zaure is developing a mobile application for Kazakhstani students to learn English.

«In the framework of the internship program, my research advisor and I decided to develop a mobile application for learning English, targeted at students in Kazakhstan. This project is based on the need to create an accessible and effective learning tool that considers the specific needs and preferences of the target audience. The development of the application involves conducting analytical work to identify the main needs and preferences of students. This analysis will help determine the key features and characteristics of the application, adapting it to the specific requests of users. The content development includes creating interactive and engaging educational materials, including lessons, exercises, games, tests, audio and video materials. Additionally, a feedback and support system for students will be provided to ensure an effective and personalized learning environment. An important aspect is the progress and assessment system, which motivates students and maintains their interest in learning», added the scholarship recipient.

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What makes your mobile application unique? There are other similar successful projects on the market, especially in learning English.

— «The application provides learning according to university curricula. We integrate materials and methods that meet academic standards, making our application an attractive choice for students studying English in educational institutions. This ensures that users can be confident that learning through the application aligns with their academic goals and helps them successfully complete their university courses».

Can you tell us how you plan to analyze the needs of Kazakhstani students while being abroad?

— «We are currently developing a structured questionnaire containing questions about language needs, learning preferences, interests, and expectations from the mobile application. Once completed, the questionnaire will be sent to students and teachers to identify common trends and key student needs. Additionally, we will offer students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the educational content in print form to obtain feedback on its effectiveness and interest».

You mentioned a feedback system. In what format will it be provided?

— «Feedback will be provided instantly through our application. University teachers will be able to easily monitor each student's performance in real-time. This means they will be able to promptly assess students' progress, assist them in their studies, and tailor lessons to their need».

— Thank you for the conversation!

Author: Madina Karimova Press Service Center for International Programs

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