Utilization of Social Networks among Saudi EFL Learners: Trends and Uses

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to investigate the use of social networking sites among learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) in Saudi institutions of higher education. The actual study was conducted at the King Saud University (KSU). Reports on the extent to which the students are familiar with social media and the manner in which they utilize the technology were obtained. The research also examines the perception of students regarding the use social networking sites in their learning. The percentage of students using the social media and their frequency of visiting the sites also form part of the discussion of this paper. This is in an attempt to draw a clear picture of how the utilization of this new technology is emerging in Saudi higher education. The findings are discussed in light of students’ actual use and their perceived beliefs about the use of such technologies in their learning and social life.