Integrating Technology into Language Teaching Practice in the Post-COVID-19 Pandemic Digital Age: From a Korean English as a Foreign Language Context

Abstract

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a transformation in the traditional teaching practices of language classrooms in the post-COVID-19 pandemic digital age. The surge of innovative pedagogical resources and options has played a significant role in this transformation. The integration of digital technology has been recognized as a crucial means of promoting digital literacy, which is regarded as an essential skill in the current climate. In the realm of language education, this paradigm shift has encouraged educators to adopt new technological components and incorporate them into their course contents and activities to cater to the needs of the new digital generation of learners. The purpose of this study is to identify the impact of integrating social networking services such as KakaoTalk and YouTube into mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) in supporting Korean English as a foreign language (EFL) university students’ language learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilizing a mixed-methods research design, the study gathered quantitative and qualitative data through survey questionnaire, online interview and interactive presentation tool. The result of this study revealed that the integration of social networks and MALL could support EFL university students’ language learning experience and boost students’ motivation and engagement in their learning process. This study also suggested that the concept of MALL could contribute to cultivating positive dynamics of classroom interaction. The findings of the study highlight the benefits of incorporating technology in language education and the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet the evolving needs of learners in a rapidly changing post-COVID-19 pandemic digital landscape.