Combining Chatbot and Social Media: Enhancing Personal Learning Environment (PLE) in Language Learning

Abstract

Transformation of the global learning landscape in twenty-first century is shaped by the uptake of digital technology and social network applications, along with students’ alteration of characteristics, needs, and demands. As an attempt to integrate digital technology and social network application, this study aimed to develop a chatbot-based application integrated with social media LINE to enhance language learning, specifically for learning Japanese grammar. The application, namely Gengobot, is a chatbot-based grammar application, consisting of Japanese Language Proficiency Test Level 5 and Level 4 (N5 and N4) grammar materials in three language: Indonesian, English, and Japanese. This study applied design-based research method with Waterfall application development procedure, and a questionnaire to gather feedbacks from fifty-three students regarding Gengobot features and contents. Gengobot application was successfully developed using code igniter framework, MySQL database, and webhook to integrate Gengobot application with LINE messaging API. Application testing confirmed that Gengobot is successfully developed and operated properly. The students agreed that Gengobot materials and features considered to be adequate, useful, user friendly, and suitable to support language learning. Gengobot is also highly accessible since it is integrated to social media LINE, allowing students to adjust its use to their own learning preference and needs, which is suitable to enhance students’ personal learning environment.