Social Networking

Social networking has become an integral part of language learning, driven by advancements in digital media and web-based communication. While the term "social networking" is often used broadly, it is important to understand its connection to the affordances of social media technologies (Alvarez Valencia, 2016). Social network sites (SNSs), like Facebook, prioritize communication among individuals who are already part of an offline social network, whereas social networking focuses on initiating relationships within an online community (Boyd & Ellison, 2008; Zourou, 2012).

The popularity of social networking stems from its potential to maintain and develop online relationships, fostering expression, interaction, and community building (Thorne, 2010). In language learning, social networking platforms offer more than just viewing pictures or posting messages. They serve as resources for communication and collaboration, creating opportunities for learners to use the target language in meaningful ways outside the classroom. Language learning-oriented social networking platforms go beyond traditional social media functionalities. They provide language courses, learning materials, and interactive activities such as pronunciation practice, vocabulary exercises, dialogues, reading materials, and video chat (Brick, 2011a, 2011b; Liaw, 2011). By leveraging the interactive and collaborative nature of social networking, language learners can engage with authentic language contexts, connect with others, and access a wide range of resources to support their language development journey. Research shows that these platforms can increase learners' motivation to learn languages (Harrison, 2013; Harrison & Thomas, 2009; Lin & Warschauer, 2011).

Here are popular social networking tools that can be used in language teaching:

Classhook

ClassHook is an innovative social networking tool designed to enhance the learning experience in the classroom. It harnesses the power of popular media and connects students through relevant and entertaining video clips from movies, TV shows, and online media. With ClassHook, teachers can create a dynamic and interactive learning environment where students can collaborate, engage, and learn together. Using ClassHook is both fun and educational. Teachers can easily search for specific topics or explore a vast library of video clips that cover various subjects and grade levels. These clips are carefully curated to align with educational standards and objectives, ensuring that students receive valuable and relevant content. One of the key features of ClassHook is its social networking aspect. Teachers can create customized playlists and share them with students, allowing for collaborative learning experiences. Students can interact with one another by discussing the video clips, sharing their thoughts and insights, and even creating their own content related to the lessons.

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Livemocha

Livemocha is an online language learning platform that combines social networking with language acquisition. It offers a unique and interactive learning experience by connecting language learners from around the world in a virtual community. At its core, Livemocha provides a platform for learners to engage in language learning activities such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Learners can access a wide range of language courses, exercises, and resources tailored to their proficiency level and language goals. What sets Livemocha apart is its emphasis on social interaction. Learners have the opportunity to engage with native speakers of the language they are learning through language exchanges, where they can practice speaking and receive feedback on their language skills. Additionally, learners can join virtual study groups, participate in discussions, and collaborate on language-related projects with other members of the Livemocha community.

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Busuu

Busuu is an innovative online language learning platform that incorporates social networking features to enhance the language learning experience. It offers a wide range of language courses and interactive exercises designed to help learners develop their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. One of the key features of Busuu is its social networking aspect, which allows learners to connect with native speakers of the language they are learning. Busuu also provides a community-based learning environment where learners can interact with other language enthusiasts from around the world. The platform offers a wide range of learning materials, including vocabulary and grammar exercises, audio dialogues, and interactive quizzes. Learners can track their progress, set learning goals, and receive personalized recommendations based on their performance and interests

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Babbel

Babbel is an online language learning platform that provides interactive courses and language lessons to help learners improve their language skills. While Babbel primarily focuses on individual learning rather than being a social networking site, it does incorporate some social elements to enhance the learning experience. One of the social aspects of Babbel is the ability to connect with a community of language learners. Within the platform, learners can engage in discussions, share their progress, and interact with fellow learners who are studying the same language. This allows learners to seek support, exchange language learning tips, and motivate each other throughout their language learning journey. Additionally, Babbel provides opportunities for learners to practice their speaking skills through interactive exercises and dialogues. Learners can listen to native speakers, repeat phrases, and record their own voice to compare with the native pronunciation

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Schoology

Schoology is an online learning management system (LMS) that provides a platform for teachers, students, and parents to collaborate and engage in educational activities. While Schoology is not primarily a social networking site, it does incorporate social elements to foster communication and collaboration within the educational community. One of the key features of Schoology is its ability to facilitate communication and interaction among teachers, students, and parents. Users can create profiles, join groups, and participate in discussions, allowing for seamless communication and the exchange of ideas. This promotes engagement and collaboration within the learning community. Schoology also offers tools for assignment management, grading, and feedback. Teachers can create and distribute assignments, track student progress, provide feedback, and facilitate online discussions. Students can submit their work, access learning materials, and interact with their peersIt allows teachers to create interactive courses, engage students in discussions, and provide feedback, fostering collaboration and language practice.

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Google Classroom

Google Classroom is a web-based platform developed by Google that helps teachers and students manage their assignments, communicate, and collaborate online. While it is not a traditional social networking site, Google Classroom incorporates social features that facilitate interaction and engagement within the classroom community. One of the main advantages of Google Classroom is its ability to streamline the assignment workflow. Teachers can create and distribute assignments electronically, and students can submit their work online. This eliminates the need for physical papers and enables efficient and organized assignment management. Students can also receive immediate feedback from teachers, fostering communication and supporting their learning progress. Google Classroom also promotes collaboration among students. It allows for group discussions, sharing of documents and files, and collaborative editing of assignments. In addition, Google Classroom integrates seamlessly with other Google tools, such as Google Drive and Google Docs. This integration enables easy access to files, documents, and other educational resources, enhancing productivity and collaboration. It also provides a centralized platform for communication, as teachers can post announcements and reminders, and students can ask questions and participate in class discussions.

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References

Alvarez Valencia, J. A. (2016). Language views on social networking sites for language learning: The case of Busuu. Computer Assisted Language Learning, 29(5), 853-867.
Zourou, K. (2012). On the attractiveness of social media for language learning: A look at the state of the art. ALSIC, 15(1)
Boyd, D.M., & Ellison, N.B. (2008). Social network sites: Definition, history, and scholarship. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 13(1), 210-230.
Brick, B. (2011a). How effective are web 2.0 language learning sites in facilitating language learning? Compass: The Journal of Learning and Teaching at the University of Greenwich, 3, 57-63.
Brick, B. (2011b). Social networking sites and language learning. International Journal of Virtual and Personal Learning Environments, 2(3), 18-31
Liaw, M. (2011). Review of Livemocha. Language Learning & Technology, 15(1), 36-40.
Harrison, R. (2013). Profiles in social networking sites for language learning: Livemocha revisited. In M.N. Lamy & K. Zourou (Eds.), Social networking for language education (pp. 100-116). New York, NY: Palgrave Macmillan.
Harrison, R., & Thomas, M. (2009). Identity in online communities: Social networking sites and language learning. International Journal of Emerging Technologies & Society, 7(2), 109-124.
Lin, C., & Warschauer, M. (2011). Integrative versus instrumental orientation among online language learners. Linguagens e Dialogos, 2(1), 58-86