THE BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES OF SOCIAL MEDIA INTEGRATION IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING

Abstract

The integration of social media into educational environments has noticeably changed the way students access information and practice language skills. In the context of English language learning, social networking platforms provide learners with opportunities to communicate, collaborate, and interact with authentic language materials. This article examines both the advantages and the limitations associated with the use of social media in English language learning. Drawing on recent research, particularly studies conducted among English education students, the paper discusses how digital platforms influence language practice, learner engagement, and academic communication. The findings suggest that social media can support motivation, encourage interaction, and provide learners with exposure to real language use. At the same time, several challenges remain, including distraction, the use of informal language, and the absence of structured learning guidance. The study, therefore, argues that social media can become a useful supplementary tool for language learning when it is integrated carefully within educational practices.