Mobile Learning through WhatsApp: EFL Students’ Perceptions

Abstract

Rapid development of technology and the use of mobile learning enable students to choose the most effective device and application as a learning tool to improve their language skills. WhatsApp as a feasible application is nowadays taken into consideration since they often use it in their learning during Covid-19 Pandemic. This study aimed to investigate the EFL university students’ perceptions on using WhatsApp application in their language learning. 21 EFL students from English Department who joined a Qualitative Data Analysis class were involved as the participants of this study. Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were employed as the data collection instruments. The findings indicated that WhatsApp seemed to be used well as a medium of learning by students and it could help students to improve their language skills particularly in writing and reading skills. It was proved from their positive response and comments on using that application. However, the students faced some challenges dealing with their concentration on messages since they were distracted by the other messages delivered and the mobile internet connection problem.