A Study of EFL Saudi Students' Use of Mobile Social Media Applications for Learning

Abstract

This research addresses the gaps in the literature on m-learning approaches in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students studying at university level. The research aimed to explore university students' use of social media applications and their role in language learning, with a focus on how mobile devices can best be utilised. It analysed the attitudes of 102 learners towards the use of social media to improve language learning both inside and outside the classroom setting. Students of both genders completed a questionnaire, and five students engaged in semi-structured interviews. The aim was to discover whether the students are currently using social media applications to enhance their language skills, and what the students' attitudes are towards the use of social media via mobile devices inside and outside the classroom. Prior to designing the research instruments, the literature was reviewed, including examining the attitudes of learners in different countries towards mobile technologies, and to decide on the best approach to take in examining attitudes towards new forms of learning. Based on the findings from the literature, appropriate questions were devised, and these reveal an overall positive response towards from the student participants towards using social media and mobile technologies to facilitate learning English. The results of this research are positive, and it is important that Saudi Arabia keeps up to date with advancements in technology to ensure the best learning experience for learners and maximise their potential. Introduction and background It has been claimed that traditional learning has been disappearing due to the vast changes resulting from technology, which has impacted dramatically on both education and society. Hence, socialising which previously occurred only in the classroom often now takes place in the virtual world. Communication is a unique aspect of social life and social media can facilitate and help to improve it. In Saudi Arabia, a country where English is spoken as a second language, there are many difficulties when it comes to imparting knowledge in English; this necessitates the need to be learning English from nursery school and continuing to the university level. However, learning English at the university level has also been impacted by many lifestyle changes that have come about from the influence of western cultures and digital convergence with local culture. Social media can act as a source for communication between tutors and students, making it suitable to be used by EFL pupils in order to augment their English knowledge. Social networking sites have brought about drastic changes and have revolutionised ways of communication and the exchange of information over the past few decades.