The effects of digital tools on English Foreign Learning learners’ face-to-face interactions

Abstract

Presently, technological innovations have altered every facet of our everyday life, particularly those associated with the humanities. The development of new communication devices has transformed the nature of contact from interpersonal to computer-mediated. This study aims to contribute to the debate about the different effects of digital tools on in-person interaction. This study investigates the effects of modern digital communication technology outlets on English as a foreign language (EFL) learners’ face-to-face interaction. The researchers opted for a questionnaire and field observation to collect the necessary data to be analyzed. One hundred (100) participants answered the questionnaire. The study found that the abusive use of digital tools has a critical impact on face-to-face interactions and that it affected the human ties between EFL learners, and also their relationships with their families and friends. The outcomes of this investigation allow us to conclude that the constant use of digital outlets can negatively affect face-to-face interactions. Keywords: Digital tools; EFL learners; interactions; technology.