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Title:	Informal learning of English and social networking sites: a survey among students in institutions of higher learning in Malaysia
Authors:	Haslinda Abu Hassan (P61828)
Supervisor:	Mohamed Amin Embi, Prof. Dato’ Dr.
Keywords:	English language -- Study and teaching -- Computer-assisted instruction Non-formal education -- Technological innovations Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia -- Dissertations Dissertations, Academic -- Malaysia
Issue Date:	17-Apr-2018
Description:	Social networking sites (SNSs) are a much-touted platform for improved learning, yet very little research goes beyond the classroom-level, controlled application of SNS. This study provides a look at actual usage and application of SNSs beyond the classroom, where data is scarce. This study sought to describe how students in institutions of higher learning (IHL) in Malaysia use SNSs in relation to informal learning of English. This survey research utilised an online questionnaire as data collection instrument. The study involved a total of 6,085 students from IHL in Malaysia. Data were analysed using SPSS version 22.0. The findings revealed that the majority of the students perceived use of SNSs as helpful in improving their English language proficiency, particularly in areas of writing, communication and reading skills as well as for vocabulary enrichment. Students reported frequently using SNSs for informal learning of English in terms of collaboration, sharing of information, materials and resources, practical affordances of SNSs, and for affective and personal aspect but less frequently for communication/interaction and practising language skills. In relation to language skills specifically, the majority of the students use their SNSs frequently to improve their writing skills, apply and practice English beyond the boundaries of the classroom, and learn new vocabulary. T-test and ANOVA results revealed statistically significant mean differences in the way SNSs were used for informal learning of English among groups based on gender, level of study, and reported MUET band score with female, ‘Others’ (pre-university students), and ‘average’ MUET band students using SNSs more frequently. However, calculation of Cohen’s d indicated small effect size. When SNSs are used for informal learning of English, students were concerned about issues related to language, technological barriers and personal apprehension. These were mainly related to mixing of English with their mother tongue and the use of informal English, issues of access, and being easily distracted while on SNSs. This study took a ‘macro’ approach and used survey at the national level in order to get the widest yet comprehensive view of the research issue. The results presented a much needed, and currently lacking, view into the actual utility and use of SNSs for the purpose of informal learning of English among students in Malaysian IHL.,“Certification of Master's/Doctoral Thesis” is not available,Master of Education
Pages:	336
Call Number:	LB1631.3.H337 2018 tesis
Publisher:	UKM, Bangi
Appears in Collections:	Faculty of Education / Fakulti Pendidikan

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