The Use of Blogs in Learning English as a Foreign Language

Abstract

Within the context of English as a foreign language (EFL), using blogs has emerged as a language learning tool. However, how teachers effectively incorporate blogs within the confines of an instructional framework and what the current research shows about using blogs as a learning tool remain unsolved issues. Thus, the current paper presents a review of the research on the use of blogs in EFL learning contexts. The study first introduces blogs and a theoretical framework for the use of blogs within the borders of the constructivist approach. Then, in accordance with the studies reviewed, the research is divided into the following five sections: effects on (1) the awareness of the target culture, (2) interaction and communication, (3) basic language skills, (4) learners' motivation, perceptions and attitudes, and (5) autonomous learning. In conclusion, while the current literature reflects that using blogs is a valuable and effective technique that can be readily used in the context of EFL, more research is necessary. Finally, the paper ends with practical recommendations for EFL teachers and researchers.

Acceptance of a Proposed Model Based on Using Web 2.0 for Developing English Writing Skills

“…They agreed that it may develop English writing skills easily and quickly. These results corresponded to the results of the previous studies which proved that either blog or Google Docs were effective tools to develop English writing skills (Edwards, 2011;Hedin, 2012;Krajka, 2012;Aydin, 2014;Arslan, 2014;Ting, 2015).…”

“…Using traditional teaching methods could be a reason for weakness in writing skills among students (Javid and Umer, 2014). In addition, there are many studies that represent using web 2.0 tools as a solution to overcome this problem such as Edwards (2011), Krajka (2012), Aljumah (2012), and Aydin (2014). So, this study was conducted to design a proposed model for developing female students' English writing skills and exploring its acceptance level from instructors' and students' perspectives.…”

Online Interactive Communication via Academic Blogging Activities Among Indonesian EFL Students

“…The touch of sophisticated technology information makes the learning media to be more variation, creative, and innovative, also giving a massive impact on the learning process. Aydin (2014) in the article entitled " The Use of Blogs in Learning English as a Foreign Language" found 3 impacts of using the blog in the context of ELT (English Language Teaching):…”

Fusion of Technology with Language Learning: Blog Community

“…However, one of the most recent and effective methods to teaching and learning English is by integrating or fusing technology as a pedagogical tool in the classrooms (Said Fathy El Said Abdul Fattah 2016, Munira Mutmainna 2016, Selami Aydin 2014, Emelia Rahman Sidek & Melor Md Yunus 2012, Blackstone et al 2010, Nadzrah & Kemboja 2009, Wrede 2003. This is in line with the current development of information and communication technology (ICT) which has produced a new generation of learners who are more exposed to the digital and electronic worlds of various social media.…”

“…Among the CMC tools that is unceasingly making inroads into the classrooms is the weblogs or blogs which has been found to be useful and effective the world over (Munira Mutmainna 2016, Emelia Rahman Sidek & Melor Md Yunus 2012, Selami Aydin 2014, Blackstone et al 2010) as a teaching and learning tool especially in the EL classrooms. In the area of learning resources, educators used blogs to provide students with a space to access useful information as well as discuss issues in their programs of study.…”