A Qualitative Research on Foreign Language Learners’ Perceptions of Facebook as a Learning Environment

Abstract

Although the use of Facebook in EFL education is relatively new, it may bring a potential to promote communicative and productive skills. This study aims to explore Turkish EFL learners’ perception of Facebook regarding their reasons to use it, perceived harmful effects and the utilization of Facebook as a language learning environment. The study was conducted with 30 preservice EFL teachers studying at the department of English Language Teaching (ELT) at Balıkesir University. The study followed a qualitative tradition. The data were gathered through reflections, essay papers and interviews. The findings showed that EFL learners use Facebook for communication and interaction even if they perceive several harmful effects. Moreover, EFL learners regarded Facebook as an educational environment and as a foreign language learning environment. Thus, EFL teachers are recommended to be trained in the use of social media in the foreign language teaching and learning processes. In addition, the curricula of the EFL teacher training programs should include a specific course focusing on topics to raise awareness of the use of Facebook as a language learning environment.

Keywords

• English as a foreign language; perceptions; Facebook

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