Students’ perspectives on Facebook and Instagram ELT opportunities: a comparative study

Abstract In recent years, Social Networking Sites (SNSs) have witnessed a substantial surge in global user adoption. Apart from their primary intended functionalities, these platforms have been increasingly utilized for language learning purposes. However, the extent to which they cater to the needs of language learners remains a longstanding question. The present study primarily aimed to investigate how EFL undergraduate and postgraduate learners ( N = 84) perceived the use of Facebook and Instagram, employing the components of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2). Secondly, it sought to explore the potential ways in which these SNSs can contribute to language learning, utilizing semi-structured interviews. By triangulating the findings from the UTAUT2 questionnaire and interviews, the majority of the participants expressed a preference for Instagram, considering it more effortless, enjoyable, and supportive among EFL learners. However, concerning their suitability for language teaching, the study revealed mixed results for both SNSs. The study concludes by presenting and discussing suggestions on how to effectively utilize the affordances of these platforms for second language teaching.