THE STUDENTS' PERCEPTION OF USING MOBILE ASSISTED LANGUAGE LEARNING (MALL) TOWARD READINGSKILLOFTHE STUDENTS' ENGLISH EDUCATION STUDY PROGRAMBATURAJA UNIVERSITY

The aims of the study is to analyze the perceptions of students intheEnglish Education Study Program at Baturaja University toward the useof Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL) toward their reading skills. MALL represents a mobile-based educational approach that allows for flexible, and collaborative learning, transcending the limitations of
traditional classroom settings. The research employed a descriptivequantitative method using a four-point Likert scale questionnairecomprising two key indicators: ease of use and perceived usefulness of MALL. The sample consisted of 84 students from the second, fourth, andsixth semesters selected through a total sampling technique. Datacollection was conducted online via Google Forms, which were distributedthrough WhatsApp groups. The findings revealed that the majorityof students exhibited positive perceptions the use of MALL in learningEnglish reading. A total of 83% of respondents were respons agree withstatements concerning the effectiveness and practicality of MALLinsupporting reading comprehension. Students predominantly utilizedapplications such as Google Translate, YouTube, online dictionaries, andAI-powered tools like ChatGPT for their reading practices. Despite theseadvantages, challenges such as limited internet connectivity wereidentified as barriers to optimal use. The findings demonstrate that students hold a highly positive perception of MALL and its roleinenhancing English reading skills. The study recommends ongoingtechnological training for students and lecturers.

Keywords: Student perception, Mobile Assisted Language Learning(MALL), reading skill, technology.