Exploring the Influence of Social Media and Online Communities on Affordances in ELT

Nguyen Thien Duyen Ngo; Huong Ngoc Uyen Pham

doi:10.54855/ijli.24347

Authors

Ngo Nguyen Thien Duyên Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance, Vietnam https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7314-1352
Pham Huong Ngoc Uyen Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance, Vietnam https://orcid.org/0009-0003-3659-4656

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54855/ijli.24347

Keywords:

social media, online communities, English Language Teaching, affordances, ecological perspectives

Abstract

In modern times, the popularity of social media and online communities play an important role in both daily life and language learning. Social media and online communities have become integral to modern life, offering unique opportunities to transform English Language Teaching (ELT). This literature review examines how the affordances provided by these platforms are reshaping the current landscape of ELT through an ecological perspective. Specifically, the study investigates their influence on teaching and learning practices, focusing on how these affordances foster authentic language use, collaboration, and personalized learning experiences. Additionally, the review explores the implications of these affordances for teachers’ strategies in designing dynamic, multimodal learning environments that extend beyond traditional classrooms. By synthesizing findings from recent research (2014–2024), the study highlights the transformative role of social media and online communities in creating enriched affordance environments. These platforms enable greater learner autonomy, cultural awareness, and engagement. The study also identifies practical recommendations for educators to integrate these tools effectively while addressing challenges such as digital literacy and privacy concerns. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of how digital affordances are shaping ELT and suggests strategies for leveraging them in innovative and sustainable teaching practices.

Author Biographies

Ngo Nguyen Thien Duyên, Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance, Vietnam

Ms. Ngo Nguyen Thien Duyen completed her MA in Applied Linguistics and TESOL at Macquarie University, Australia. She has published articles in local and international journals. She is currently a lecturer at Ho Chi Minh city University of Economics and Finance. Her research interests includes but not limited to TESOL, teacher professional development, assessment practice, and intercultural communication.

Pham Huong Ngoc Uyen, Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance, Vietnam

Ms. Pham Huong Ngoc Uyen is currently a lecturer at the Faculty of English, Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance. She holds a Master's degree in Applied Linguistics from Curtin University, Australia. Her main interests are the application of innovative methods in ELT, the promotion of students’ motivation, and learner autonomy. Currently, as she is a Ph.D. candidate at Ho Chi Minh City of Social Sciences and Humanities, her research fields of interest have expanded to varied aspects of linguistics and how languages can change and make an impact in all directions of life.

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