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2012 » Papers » Volume 1 » Using Social Networking in ESL Classroom in Higher Education – A Case Study 1. USING SOCIAL NETWORKING IN ESL CLASSROOM IN HIGHER EDUCATION – A CASE STUDY Authors: Turkmen Hediye Gamze Volume 1 | DOI: 10.12753/2066-026X-12-056 | Pages: 350-354 | Download PDF | Abstract
University students in Turkey face a lot of problems while learning a second language. One of the most significant problems is that the students lack motivation and urge to study a second language, especially when instructors use traditional teaching techniques that decrease student autonomy and limit interaction in a language classroom. Under these conditions, pedagogic issues and practical applications to solve motivational and autonomy problems become topics of heated debate. In Gediz University, an institution which encourages new learning programs and exploration of eLearning options, a selected group of pre-intermediate students have started to utilize a social networking website (Edmodo.com) as a language learning device. Edmodo.com, a popular website that allows free private microblogging in the classroom was chosen for this case study due to the fact that it is simple and can be used by all students regardless of their computer skills. A special mix of technologies was brought together and a tailor-made program was developed to adapt the present curriculum, meeting the needs to increase especially vocabulary and reading skills. During the research that lasted two months, the students were asked to organize groups in their classes and socialize on the Internet while doing assignments and various other activities. After a brief of overview of social networking and language learning opportunities, this paper discusses motivational benefits, the changing role of teachers to strengthen student autonomy and team work where necessary and adaptation issues being faced during the research, while presenting a case study and an analysis of the feedback taken from the questionnaires. | Keywords
Social networking, motivation, student autonomy, eLearning, customization. |
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