A Qualitative Study on the use of Social Media in Foreign Language Learning

Abstract

This study focuses on the use of social media in foreign language learning. The language
learning process is more than an individual effort; it requires an interactive and community
based approach. Social media emerges as a significant tool in establishing such interactive
learning environments. Platforms such as Google, Google Translate, Facebook, Twitter,
YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, and Skype enable language learners to interact with
each other, practice, and access various resources. This study examines the role of social media
tools in the language learning process and how they contribute to the individual and collective
development of students learning Turkish at Cyprus American University. In this context,
qualitative data collection methods, particularly in-depth interviews, were employed, and the
findings obtained from the interviews were analyzed and interpreted through content analysis.When the study was analyzed, it was found that social media tools are an important learning
resource that contributes to the personal and social development of language learners. The
findings also indicate that social media tools, due to their easy accessibility, play an active role
in facilitating interaction among young learners during the language learning process. Thanks
to social media platforms, Cyprus American University students are increasing their
opportunities to practice the Turkish language they have learned, thus improving their language
skills.
The study concludes that, based on the features of social media, it has become an important tool
playing an active role in the language learning process.