Utilizing Social Networking Sites for Reinforcing the Linguistic Competence of EFL Learners

Abstract

The unprecedented progress in digital appliances nowadays resulted in increasing reliance on the use of technology, which facilitated construction of knowledge including the acquisition of languages (Thorne, 2010). Formal education has developed drastically and neither educators nor classroom input is perceived as the only source of information; unlimited resources exist for learners to construct knowledge (Benson, 2007). Online applications foster learners’ autonomy and independence and encourage them to practise the target language in authentic situations using different tools like Social Networking Sites (SNSs). Recent studies signal how SNSs increase learners’ motivation (Aydin, 2014), interaction and socialization (Ryberg & Christiansen, 2008), and pragmatic and linguistic proficiency (Blake, 1998). The more language learners have opportunities to use them effectively; the greater improvement in their multiliteracy and digital skills is (Chartrand, 2012). This study aims at investigating the perceptions of undergraduate learners on SNSs and the extent to which they benefit from them to reinforce their linguistic performance. The data are collected from a survey questionnaire through closed-ended and open-ended items. The analysis shows the participants’ perceptions that SNSs can help improve oral and communication skills, yet they could not get the much benefit from these platforms in improving writing techniques and knowledge of grammar. The data also signal the participants’ concerns and limitations in using language-learning applications like Livemocha, iTalki, Lang-8, Hello-Hello, Duolingo, Palabea, and other relevant ones. They attributed this to lack of training on using these resources. This study provides implications of using these digital platforms.