Facebook as a Social Media Platform for Second Language Learning

Abstract

Introduction

This study aimed to describe and analyze the role of Facebook in helping learners learn a second language. It also explores some problems that may affect second language acquisition. The study makes use of a qualitative method. In choosing the (ten) participants, the researcher uses purposive sampling to consider their characteristics which are directly linked to Facebook. The participants are tertiary students from a private higher education institution in Manila. This study covers the academic year 2014-2015.

Methods

The researcher intentionally designs a questionnaire with four essay-type questions. The essay questions help to explore the existing variables and to provide a clearer picture of the phenomenon.

Results

The study reveals that students acquire information and ideas in English when they use Facebook. These ideas/information are grammar, vocabulary, spelling, punctuation, and news. About the problem in using Facebook, the participants claim that poor spelling, faulty grammar, senseless/misleading information and erroneous punctuation marks confuse their minds when they use the social network site. They believe, as revealed by the data, that interesting articles/stories and correct information should be posted on Facebook because those things can help them acquire knowledge and concepts that can improve their English language facility.

Discussions

It is recommended that professors and language educators provide educational materials that may motivate students to further their knowledge and skill in English. Users of Facebook should only post and share correct pieces of information. According to Boyd and Ellison (2007), social network sites are web-based services that allow individuals to (1) construct a public or semi-public profile within a bounded system, (2) articulate a list of other users with whom they share a connection, and (3) view and traverse their list of connections and those made by others within the system. Facebook (launched in 2004) is a social networking website. Users can create profiles, upload videos and photos, send messages, and keep in touch with friends and family. Currently, it is available in at least 70 languages. Descriptive research records events that are described, interpreted, analyzed, and compared (Lauer, 2006).