Abstract

This systematic review investigates learner use of audio/video playback (AVP) controls in technology-enhanced listening environments. To this aim, 61 academic works produced from 2000–2021 underwent inclusion/exclusion criteria and were analyzed. The resulting corpus was made up of 16 peer-reviewed articles. We first situate the studies examined with regards to contextual, educational, and methodological characteristics of AVP controls research. Then, we conducted thematic analysis to identify, analyze and report affordances and limitations of AVP controls. Four affordances and two limitations were identified. The affordances describe how AVP controls enable students to resort to different strategies, change their interaction patterns with learning materials, address comprehension problems and enhance listening comprehension performance. Similarly, limitations describe how proficiency level restricts interaction with AVP controls and the need for learner training on AVP controls. Results are discussed along with integrated data. Pedagogical implications and avenues for further research are also discussed. © 2024, Castledown Publishers. All rights reserved.