How do university L2 learners make use of e-dictionaries/apps in mobile-assisted language learning (MALL)?

Learners can now learn language anywhere and anytime with hand-held mobile devices connected to the internet, which is becoming the largest supplier of free language learning resources. Accessing meaning of unknown language items encountered online is usually the first step for learning to take place. How to make good use of e-dictionaries/apps, or meaning technology, is a key factor that affects learners’ learning efficiency. This study investigated what functions of e-dictionaries/apps university L2 learners actually use and what ideal functions they desire when they engage in MALL. Some discrepancies were found regarding the actual and ideal functions learners use. Discussions revolve around the design of future generations of e-dictionaries/apps and ways to improve learners’ MALL efficiency.