SOCIAL NETWORKING IN THE ENGLISH CLASSROOM

Abstract

The article deals with the issues, based on the idea that social networking may have educational potential in the English Classroom. The realities of the modern world of Internet and gadgets demonstrate that young people prefer virtual life to real communication, many students tend to spend time on social networking than doing exercises. Thus, time spent on using a smartphone not for entertainment but for studying foreign languages allows to turn the process of learning into an exciting activity. The article is aimed at analyzing the possibilities of using social networks in the process of learning foreign languages. The advantages of social networks as a means of learning English are outlined. Didactic peculiarities of current popular social networks, such as Lang-8, Mylanguageexchange, Interpals, Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok are paid attention to. It is proved that social networks serve as platforms to improve the students’ foreign language communication skills – reading, listening, speaking and writing as well as spelling, grammar and pronunciation. Besides, students are sure to develop their creativity, critical thinking, cooperation and other soft skills.

Key words: social networks; learning foreign languages; digital technologies; communication skills; educational platforms.