ISO 9001:2015

ONLINE PLATFORMS, OFFLINE PROFICIENCY: NAVIGATING THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON LANGUAGE SKILLS

Jheel D. Barad

This research explores the multifaceted influence of social media on the process of English language learning, examining the ways in which digital platforms shape language acquisition, linguistic competence, and socio-cultural interactions. With the pervasive integration of social media in contemporary society, English language learners are increasingly exposed to diverse linguistic inputs and interactive environments. This study investigates the positive and negative effects of social media on language learning outcomes, considering factors such as vocabulary acquisition, language proficiency, and cultural competence. In the contemporary digital era, social media platforms have revolutionized various aspects of human life, reshaping communication, information dissemination, knowledge exchange, commerce, and education. Davies aptly notes, "texts of the new technologies have mutated into complex hybrid systems that have made new demands on reading and writing, viewing, social exchange, and communication" (Roelofse, 2013). This paper seeks to delve into the nuanced impact of social networks on English language proficiency, aiming to unravel whether these influences sway language knowledge and usage towards positivity or negativity. Recent research underscores the potential of various social media platforms—YouTube, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter—as effective teaching tools. Contrary to concerns about negative impacts, these platforms have demonstrated the ability to enhance students' motivation, proficiency, and interest in learning English. Through a fusion of multimedia, interactive features, and real-time communication, social media engages learners in ways that traditional methods may not. The findings underscore that platforms like YouTube contribute to listening skills, providing authentic content that exposes learners to diverse accents and expressions. Similarly, WhatsApp and Facebook foster language exchange and written communication, positively influencing writing skills. Instagram and Twitter, with their succinct format, encourage concise expression, impacting both vocabulary and writing proficiency. This research endeavors to offer a comprehensive understanding of the evolving dynamics between social media and English language learning. By recognizing the positive contributions of these platforms alongside potential challenges, educators can harness their potential to cultivate a more immersive and effective language learning experience in today's interconnected digital landscape.


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