Language Learning Through Social Media Platform: Exploring Realities and Insights

Abstract

Products of modernity and technological enhancement led to invention of internet and social media networks such as Facebook, twitter, Instagram and other platforms widely used by netizens and students. Transactions are swifter now-a-days due to the impact of social media but still, observable disadvantages are seen by people. This research attempted to describe the life experiences of selected college students from a private higher education institution in the Philippines with regard to their exposure and involvement with social media site such as Facebook. It covered academic year 2019.In choosing the participants, purposive sampling was employed in which traits of participants were aligned to the primary goal of this study. For the method, this output adhered to qualitative research design with phenomenology as its main approach. Through this method, descriptions of the participants were examined by the researcher using their life experiences in relation to the use of social media platform in their everyday lives. The textual data from the participants were transcribed, examined, and interpreted using content analysis which is a process of meaning-making. The results of this research revealed that participants were active users of social media platform such as Facebook where they learn to speak and communicate in English. They enjoyed perks from being online users such as fluency in English, getting invaluable information, and expanding their intellect through social interaction. On the other hand, they also encounter downsides such as reading fake news, faulty grammar, spelling, and senseless information. It is recommended that people have to be cautious in using social media sites to protect themselves from possible perils. Likewise, only correct information has to be posted on their walls so that educational and pivotal ideas will reach online users. Parents and teachers, as suggested by participants, have to monitor their children as they use online sites and platforms such as Facebook.