STUDENTS PERCEPTIONS OF USING TWITTER FOR ENHANCING READING SKILLS IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Abstract

Learning is becoming easier, quicker, and more rapid in the digital era. Students, in particular, who frequently utilize information technology, can use these resources for purposes that are more beneficial, such as advancing their education, communicating more effectively, or promoting a cause. Social media is one type of information technology that when used by a student has a good effect on them. The purpose of this study is to describe students’ perceptions while using Twitter as one of media learning for enhancing their reading skill as an English Language Foreign (EFL). This research was conducted using a qualitative descriptive method, a case study. The subjects of this research are students from the English Education Department at Universitas Muhammadiyah Kalimantan Timur (UMKT) who share certain characteristics, such as subjects have a Twitter app, have Twitter account, used Twitter more than a year. This research conducted a questionnaire and semi-structured interview to know how they enhance reading skill with Twitter. The result showed that in students’ perceptions towards Twitter, explain that Twitter allows people to interact and engage with others who have similar interests. Students can start conversations and make connections with people who are interested in reading or related topics by asking questions and receiving responses, also Twitter can be fun and full of enjoyment, it’s an effective way to learn reading skills, because there is no pressure or even coercion. Furthermore, there is some features on Twitter, can be utilized and have the potential to improve reading skills in English.