The widespread use of social networking sites (SNSs) plays an essential role in altering English as a Foreign Language (EFL) higher education. The benefits and drawbacks of using social networking sites in studying English as a foreign language in Indonesia were investigated due to the growing popularity of social networking sites. This exploratory study employed an open-ended questionnaire through Google Form in collecting the data. One hundred and two students participated in the questionnaire. Participants exhibited various opinions regarding the most popular social networking sites for English language learning, showing that defining SNS as a concept is crucial for future study and the practical integration of SNS applications in advanced language learning contexts. This study also found that Indonesian students preferred social networking sites in their EFL learning (YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Google, Duolingo, and TikTok). The basic tenets of SNS excellence are convenience, collaboration or connection, and geographic transcendence. The primary downsides of social networking sites are that they can be overwhelming, boring, annoying, and time-consuming, and include interpersonal difficulties. Moreover, the legitimacy of the source may be a concern. Recommendations for educator integration with SNS (for class assignments) and student management with SNS are the primary themes of the suggestions. The study provides novel insight into the use of SNSs for learning from undergraduate students representing different geographic perspectives. Importantly, the findings reveal that SNSs can be a valuable tool for English language learning, as they provide opportunities for learners to practice their language skills in an engaging and interactive way.

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What Do EFL Students Say About Social Networking Sites as Language Learning Tools? A Study from Indonesia

  • Anna Riana Suryanti Tambunan,
  • Winda Setia Sari,
  • Rasmitadila

摘要

The widespread use of social networking sites (SNSs) plays an essential role in altering English as a Foreign Language (EFL) higher education. The benefits and drawbacks of using social networking sites in studying English as a foreign language in Indonesia were investigated due to the growing popularity of social networking sites. This exploratory study employed an open-ended questionnaire through Google Form in collecting the data. One hundred and two students participated in the questionnaire. Participants exhibited various opinions regarding the most popular social networking sites for English language learning, showing that defining SNS as a concept is crucial for future study and the practical integration of SNS applications in advanced language learning contexts. This study also found that Indonesian students preferred social networking sites in their EFL learning (YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Google, Duolingo, and TikTok). The basic tenets of SNS excellence are convenience, collaboration or connection, and geographic transcendence. The primary downsides of social networking sites are that they can be overwhelming, boring, annoying, and time-consuming, and include interpersonal difficulties. Moreover, the legitimacy of the source may be a concern. Recommendations for educator integration with SNS (for class assignments) and student management with SNS are the primary themes of the suggestions. The study provides novel insight into the use of SNSs for learning from undergraduate students representing different geographic perspectives. Importantly, the findings reveal that SNSs can be a valuable tool for English language learning, as they provide opportunities for learners to practice their language skills in an engaging and interactive way.