Incidental second language vocabulary learning from reading novels: a comparison of three mobile modes

This paper reports on a study in which incidental English vocabulary learning from three mobile modes (book, e-book and e-book with user modelling and adaptive vocabulary learning support) was investigated. The study employed a crossover design to test for vocabulary gain from reading three simplified English novels among a group of Japanese high school students, learning English as a second language. Small vocabulary gains were noted; however there was no significant difference between the modes in this respect. Participants also gave their reactions to using the three modes. We reflect on some possible reasons for the results, and identify some methodological considerations