Abstract
This research investigates the construction of Saudi university English language learners’ identities in online spaces, such as discussion boards and social media, analyzing how these digital environments influence their learning processes and identity formation. The primary objective is to understand the relationship between online interaction and language learning, focusing on the negotiation of identity through online spaces. The theoretical framework is anchored in sociocultural theories that underscore the profound impact of social interaction on learning and identity development. This perspective suggests that online spaces provide a unique space for identity construction and performance, playing a pivotal role in language learning. This understanding sets the stage for analyzing learners’ narratives. Adopting a qualitative approach, it analyzes data collected from online discussion boards and social media posts to investigate the language learning narratives of Saudi university English learners. Through content and thematic analysis, the data is examined comprehensively to facilitate an in-depth exploration of language learning narratives within these online platforms. The findings highlight learners' motivations, such as cultural exchange and global communication, and reveal strategies for identity construction aligned with their learning goals. These narratives also reflect themes of authenticity and community engagement, which are pivotal in shaping learners’ online personas. The analysis suggests that online discussion boards significantly support language learning by offering platforms for authentic interaction and identity exploration. The study contributes to educational practices by providing insights into leveraging online discussion boards to enhance language learning and suggests further research on their dynamic role in educational technology.
Author Information
Reem A. Al-Samiri, University of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Paper Information
Conference: ECLL2024
Stream: Learning Environments
This paper is part of the ECLL2024 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Al-Samiri R. (2024) Navigating Online Identities: Language Learners’ Narratives in Online Spaces ISSN: 2188-112X The European Conference on Language Learning 2024: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 179-187) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2188-112X.2024.15
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2188-112X.2024.15
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