The Use of the Telegram Application as an Information-Sharing Tool

Abstract

This study explored the use and acceptance by sixth-grade Kuwaiti English language teachers of the Telegram application as an information source and a knowledge-sharing tool that enables users to easily find, store and share useful learning information and enhances their teaching–learning practices. A mixed method approach was employed that included data triangulation: observation, a survey and a focus group to empirically reveal the results. The findings revealed that Telegram application was an effective source of textual and non-textual information as well as an information-sharing tool that saved time, effort and costs and overcame time and place limitations. Telegram’s various information sets allowed for the generation of innovative ideas, which improved the effectiveness of the teaching methods and accelerated language learning. The results of this study can assist information specialists to work collaboratively with teachers to plan and design information content for Telegram to support schools’ curriculum, complement teaching practices and develop learner’s information literacy skills.