Social Networking Site Participation and Language Learner Motivation

Abstract

The foundation of online social networking sites (SNSs) is the social dimension commonly found in second language (L2) motivation models (Dornyei, “Attitudes, orientations, and motivations” 3). From a sociocultural theoretical perspective (e.g., Lantolf; Lantolf and Thorne), these sites, particularly those intended for language learning, can provide the requisite environment for scaffolding, self-regulation, and agency that lead to learner motivation. This chapter will present a case study of one Spanish language learner’s participation in Livemocha over the course of one academic year and her subsequent participation on Facebook pertaining to the continued study of world languages. Through participant user-perception interviews and observation of the learner’s activity in these SNSs, the data reveal the ways in which participation affects learner motivation and the ways in which this motivation manifests in participant behavior. The discussion will include pedagogical recommendations and imThe foundation of online social networking sites (SNSs) is the social dimension commonly found in second language (L2) motivation models (Dornyei, “Attitudes, orientations, and motivations” 3). From a sociocultural theoretical perspective (e.g., Lantolf; Lantolf and Thorne), these sites, particularly those intended for language learning, can provide the requisite environment for scaffolding, self-regulation, and agency that lead to learner motivation. This chapter will present a case study of one Spanish language learner’s participation in Livemocha over the course of one academic year and her subsequent participation on Facebook pertaining to the continued study of world languages. Through participant user-perception interviews and observation of the learner’s activity in these SNSs, the data reveal the ways in which participation affects learner motivation and the ways in which this motivation manifests in participant behavior. The discussion will include pedagogical recommendations and implications.plications.