ESL student perceptions of the value of Facebook in the IEP classroom

Abstract

Social network sites (SNSs) like Facebook have become commonplace in the lives of young adults around the world. Technological tools like Facebook can provide opportunities for ESL students to become involved with English-speaking communities outside of the language classroom. However, it is unclear what value these students might place on Facebook in relation to their English learning, especially within the context of an intensive English program (IEP). This paper presents the results of surveys about perceived value of using Facebook and the Internet by ESL students as well as qualitative data analysis of class discussions, journal responses, and interviews with ESL students in an IEP. The purpose was to explore how ESL students in an IEP perceive the value of Facebook in learning English in general as well as within the context of the academic language classroom. The results of the data analysis included student perceptions related to improving English skills, motivation, confidence, and attitude toward Facebook and learning English.