New Media and Language Learning: Opening Global Doors to Linguistic Development

Abstract

Introduction: New media and its significant impact on language learning can be traced back to no more than 60 years. Within this time, the mode of language learning has been revolutionized, by increasing user-accessibility, comfort, and exposure. The most influential types of new media used globally are computer-assisted applications, video-on-demand websites, and social network sites.Objectives: The present study has three objectives – to review the impact of new media on language learning; to determine the differences between the effects of new media language-learning and traditional style of language learning; and to understand the assistance provided by new media technology in the language learning of populations with learning disabilities.Method: Literature review method was adopted.Results: The findings of the present paper highlights how new media has impacted language learning by generating greater accessibility, exposure to content, and user-self-efficacy – which is beneficial with the learning disability population. It has been found that the most effective way of language learning is an amalgamation of new media and conventional face-to-face language learning style. However, this content of language learning has faced degradation. The present study therefore proposes the NMCQ (New Media Content Quality) model. It provides a synthesis of effective new media language learning by matching the quantity of language learners with the quality of content being learned. It proposes an amalgamation of new media technology and human assistance in promoting effective methods of linguistic development.Conclusion: It has been found that new media alone cannot proliferate optimal language learning, and the quality of content may not be ideal. Nevertheless, new media is beneficial in the efficiency of language learning in terms of accessibility, exposure and cultural assimilation. With the growing global foreign economy, the need for language learners has gained importance. Therefore, the significance of new media cannot be understated in this domain.