Weblogs enhancing EFL students’ English language learning

Abstract

This study investigated the potential value of Weblog use on English language learning in the context of a university in Thailand. It examined students’ perceptions of and attitudes towards using Weblogs. A content analysis was used to analyse the data that derived from short questionnaires, interview questionnaires and student Blogs. The findings indicated that the students perceived Weblog as a tool for the development of their English, in terms of writing, reading, vocabulary, and recording their learning experience. The students also viewed Weblog as giving an opportunity and freedom for self-expression in English, writing for both a local and global audience, fostering creative, analytical and critical thinking skills, creating social interaction and good relationships between writer and reader, and supporting the learning community. Overall then, in spite of some minor limitations, they had positive attitudes towards Weblog use. These findings suggest that Weblogs can provide learning motivation and opportunities for authorship and readership, as well as the development of writing and learning strategies, including critical thinking.