Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of mobile learning and teaching technologies and social networking platforms in enhancing English language skills among students in senior secondary public schools in India. Given the rising interest in these educational tools, their impact on language skill development remains underexplored. Addressing this gap, the study employed an experimental design with 120 randomly selected participants divided into three groups. For 12 weeks, each group received English language instruction through different mediums: mobile learning technology (Google Classroom), a social media application (WeChat), and a traditional multimedia projection system. The findings indicate a significant improvement in the English language proficiency of students who used mobile learning technology, as opposed to those who engaged with social media tools or traditional methods. This highlights the potential of mobile learning technologies in effectively enhancing language learning outcomes in the educational context. Furthermore, the traditional multimedia methods employed were found to be less effective in fostering language proficiency when compared to the employment of Google Classroom and WeChat. Given the results of this study, it is proposed that future research endeavors investigate the potential impact of severe games on language learning outcomes. In addition, it is advised that future investigations focus on creating and integrating demanding games that aim to enhance students’ proficiency in the English language.

iJIM | Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025) International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) 79

iJIM | eISSN: 1865-7923 | Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025) |

JIM International Journal of

Interactive Mobile Technologies

Alam, S. (2025). Measuring the Eects of Mobile and Social Networking Technology on the Enhancement of English Language Skills: A Comparative Study.

International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM), 19(1), pp. 79–92. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijim.v19i01.51427

Article submitted 2024-07-28. Revision uploaded 2024-10-14. Final acceptance 2024-10-24.

© 2025 by the authors of this article. Published under CC-BY.

Online-Journals.org

PAPER

Measuring the Eects of Mobile and Social

Networking Technology on the Enhancement

of English Language Skills: A Comparative Study

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the eectiveness of mobile learning and teaching technologies and social

networking platforms in enhancing English language skills among students in senior second-

ary public schools in India. Given the rising interest in these educational tools, their impact on

language skill development remains underexplored. Addressing this gap, the study employed

an experimental design with 120 randomly selected participants divided into three groups.

For 12 weeks, each group received English language instruction through dierent mediums:

mobile learning technology (Google Classroom), a social media application (WeChat), and a

traditional multimedia projection system. The ndings indicate a signicant improvement in

the English language prociency of students who used mobile learning technology, as opposed

to those who engaged with social media tools or traditional methods. This highlights the poten-

tial of mobile learning technologies in eectively enhancing language learning outcomes in

the educational context. Furthermore, the traditional multimedia methods employed were

found to be less eective in fostering language prociency when compared to the employment

of Google Classroom and WeChat. Given the results of this study, it is proposed that future

research endeavors investigate the potential impact of severe games on language learning

outcomes. In addition, it is advised that future investigations focus on creating and integrating

demanding games that aim to enhance students’ prociency in the English language.

KEYWORDS

mixed-mode, language skills, m-learning, pedagogy, multimedia communication

 INTRODUCTION

The rapid integration of digital technologies in education has revolutionized

traditional learning paradigms, oering opportunities for enhancing language learn-

ing. Mobile learning technologies (MLT) and social networking platforms, notably

Google Classroom and WeChat, have emerged as potent tools for facilitating English

Sohaib Alam()

College of Sciences and

Humanities, Prince Sattam Bin

Abdulaziz University, AlKharj,

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

s.alam@psau.edu.sa

https://doi.org/10.3991/ijim.v19i01.51427

80 International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) iJIM

| Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025)

Alam

language learning [1], [2], [3]. These platforms have been praised for their acces-

sibility, exibility, and interactive capabilities, which align well with the modern

educational challenges of accuracy and adaptability [4], [5].

Traditional methods of teaching English, while having their place, often do not

capture the full potential of contemporary digital innovations that provide interac-

tive, accessible, and tailor-made learning experiences [5]. The rise of mobile learning

technologies is a testament to this evolution. These tools stand out for their porta-

bility and accessibility, allowing learners to engage with language learning mate-

rials at their convenience, aligning perfectly with the demands of a fast-paced,

mobile-centric lifestyle. Social media platforms have also become crucial in this edu-

cational transformation [6]. They oer vibrant and interactive spaces that do more

than facilitate language practice; they immerse learners in authentic language envi-

ronments, exposing them to the practical use of English in real-world scenarios [7].

This immersion experience is of great value, as it bridges the depth between theo-

retical understanding of language and practical language prociency. Incorporating

these advanced digital tools into strategies for learning English represents a sig-

nicant step forward. It represents a change towards more ecient, captivating,

and personalized educational experiences that align with the evolving needs of

learners in the present digital age. This approach modernizes language education

and ensures learners possess the necessary abilities to navigate and thrive in our

increasingly interconnected global society.

Despite these advancements, there is a critical need for empirical evidence to

substantiate the actual impacts of these tools compared to traditional multimedia

projection systems, particularly in terms of improving English language skills [8], [9].

This study seeks to address this gap by providing a comprehensive evaluation of the

eectiveness of these digital tools in a controlled educational setting. The necessity

of this study is driven by the ongoing debate over the best practices for technology

integration in language learning and the lack of consensus on the most eective

methods to enhance language prociency.

This study will contribute to the broader discourse on optimizing language

teaching and learning practices in the digital era, oering insights into the practical

applications and limitations of mobile and social networking technologies in edu-

cational contexts [10]. By evaluating the comparative eectiveness of Google

Classroom, WeChat, and traditional methods, this study will provide valuable data

that can inform future pedagogical strategies, ensuring that educational practices

keep pace with technological advancements and evolving learner language learning

needs [11], [12], [13], [14], [15], [16], [17].

 

 

A series of studies have highlighted the diverse impacts of Google Classroom on

English language learning and teaching. Initially, Hwang and Hwang [1] shed light

on the early integration of web-based platforms in language learning, particularly

emphasizing self-regulated and ipped classroom approaches. This was followed

by Triana [2], who demonstrated the eectiveness of ipped instruction, facilitated

by Google Classroom, in enhancing student engagement in high school English. In

2017, Sun et al. [9] expanded the discourse to encompass the function of digital

iJIM | Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025) International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) 81

Measuring the Eects of Mobile and Social Networking Technology on the Enhancement of English Language Skills: A Comparative Study

platforms in cultivating English-speaking prociency, with particular emphasis on

mobile social networking. A noteworthy comparative investigation conducted by

Syakur [8] assessed the ecacy of Google Classroom in terms of traditional teach-

ing methods in ESL/EFL contexts, thereby providing valuable insights into its eec-

tiveness and limitations. Al-Maroof and Al-Emran [18] observed enhancements in

specic language competencies, such as reading comprehension and vocabulary,

among IT students utilizing Google Classroom. Furthermore, Zheng, Warschauer

and Chang [19] underscored the advantages of collaborative learning in one-to-

one laptop environments, which is applicable to using Google Classroom. Anuar

and Khairuddin [20] deliberated on the role of Google Classroom in blended learn-

ing approaches, while Purcell [21] focused on its inuence on student writing and

teacher-student interaction. The role of ICT, including Google Classroom, in diverse

educational settings was examined by Babu and MA [22]. The pandemic era saw

an adaptation to remote teaching, with Google Classroom playing a crucial role, as

Whalen [23] analyzed. Finally, Ertmer and Ottenbreit-Leftwich [4] discussed the

broader implications of digital tools such as Google Classroom on teachers’ profes-

sional development in language teaching. Collectively, these studies paint a com-

prehensive picture of the evolving role of Google Classroom in English language

education.

 

WeChat’s role in enhancing English language prociency is extensively

documented in various studies, highlighting its multifunctional capabilities in lan-

guage education. The platform’s real-time communication feature signicantly

contributes to improving English skills. Studies by Yao [3] and Zhang and Zheng

[24] demonstrate how regular interaction in English on WeChat enhances English

language skills. The abundance of educational content available on WeChat, includ-

ing diverse language learning materials, has been shown to facilitate vocabulary

expansion and grammar improvement [25], [26].

The social aspect of WeChat, encompassing group interactions and communities,

creates an immersive learning environment. As explored in a study by Farver et al.

[27], this aspect of learning improves language skills and provides cultural insights,

which are crucial for comprehensive language learning. The immediate feedback

and peer support available through WeChat are highlighted as instrumental in

rening language prociency [28]. Further research by Huang [29] has shown that

WeChat aids in improving specic language skills such as reading comprehension

and writing. Its integration into formal education settings, complementing traditional

teaching methods, is noted for its eectiveness [30]. Additionally, using WeChat for

collaborative language projects, as explored by Xi et al. [31], provided insights into

how group tasks on social media can enhance language skills. Moreover, research

by Altam [32] emphasizes the role of WeChat in developing listening and speaking

skills through its audiovisual features.

Collectively, these studies arm WeChat’s eectiveness as a comprehensive tool

for English language learning. While it oers practical language use, cultural expo-

sure, and a wide array of educational resources, its success as a language-learning

tool depends on careful integration with formal education and awareness of its

limitations. WeChat’s diverse functionalities and interactivity make it a valuable

addition to the repertoire of modern language learning strategies.

82 International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) iJIM

| Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025)

Alam

The research hypothesis posits that mobile learning technologies and social

media tools may be superior in enhancing English language skills compared to con-

ventional teaching methods. The study’s objective is to conduct a comprehensive

empirical analysis to assess and compare the impacts of various technological tools

on the skills of English language improvement. This analysis primarily explores

the ecacy of mobile learning technology, represented by Google Classroom and

social media tools, focusing on WeChat, compared to traditional multimedia pro-

jecting systems. Based on the purpose of this study, the main research question

is composed.

• How do MLT Google Classroom, WeChat, and traditional multimedia projection

systems dier in their eectiveness for enhancing English language skills among

senior secondary students?

 

 

Data were obtained from undergraduate students in Saudi Arabia during the aca-

demic year of 2023. The illustration of participants, which was chosen randomly,

consisted of 120 students. The customary age of the participants was 21.39 years

old, with a standard deviation of 1.37. The gender distribution among the partici-

pants was 64% male and 36% female. Furthermore, they were randomly assigned

to three groups: Group A = 40 participants, Group B = 40 participants, and Group

C = 40 participants. Group A received treatment through Google Classroom, Group B

received treatment through WeChat, and Group C received treatment through tradi-

tional pedagogy, specically a multimedia projecting system. To facilitate the study,

the researcher went through signicant diculties, such as participants were mildly

familiar with MLT and its use for educational purposes. Time constraint was another

hurdle that has to be considered a challenge for the present study.

 

The study was initiated by implementing three dierent modes of instruction,

namely Google Classroom, WeChat, and a multimedia projecting system, to facil-

itate English teaching for 12 weeks. Ahead of the program’s commencement, the

participants were obliged to complete a pre-test to evaluate their overall English

prociency. The intention of this preliminary investigation was twofold: rst, to

guarantee that the three groups were initially on par in terms of their command of

the English language, and second, to assess the participants’ foundational level of

English prociency at the beginning of the program. The assessment of participants’

general English skills was conducted using Longman’s TOEFL English language pro-

ciency examination, which consisted of three distinct sections: listening compre-

hension (30 questions), reading comprehension (30 questions), and structure and

written expression (40 questions).

The training program commenced for the three groups following the pre-test

measuring the students’ general English prociency. Time management was the

major challenge faced by the researcher during the research.

iJIM | Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025) International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) 83

Measuring the Eects of Mobile and Social Networking Technology on the Enhancement of English Language Skills: A Comparative Study

 

In the quest to enhance students’ English skills in listening, reading, and writing,

we embraced a multi-faceted approach with Google Classroom at its core, empha-

sizing structure and interactive learning. We meticulously organized the classroom

into distinct sections for each skill, ensuring ease of access and a coherent learning

journey. To bolster listening skills, we integrated a variety of audio resources such

as podcasts, audio stories, and recorded lectures, coupled with comprehension tasks

and summarization exercises. Live sessions via Google Meet enriched the experience,

exposing students to diverse accents and speaking styles. For reading prociency, we

utilized a range of texts, including news articles and short stories, supplemented

by comprehension questions and vocabulary activities, and deepened engagement

through weekly book club discussions. Writing skills were honed through diverse

exercises, encompassing creative writing and structured essays, with personalized

feedback provided on Google Classroom, focusing on grammar, vocabulary, coher-

ence, and style. The inclusion of peer review sessions further fostered collaborative

learning and a comprehensive feedback loop. This integrative, interactive approach

signicantly enriched the learning experience, fostering substantial improvements

in all targeted language skills.

The intervention encompassed continuous assessments through quizzes,

assignments, and listening tests administered on Google Classroom. These assess-

ments oered valuable feedback to students and enabled us to adapt our teaching

strategies to their evolving needs, thus fostering an eective and responsive learning

environment.

 

This strategy employed for enhancing students’ English language skills involved

the utilization of WeChat, employing its distinctive characteristics within a compre-

hensive treatment approach.

The initial step involved the establishment of specic WeChat groups for each

class. These groups served as the central platform for sharing resources, discus-

sions, and management of activities. Clear guidelines were put in place to promote

eective learning.

To cultivate listening skills, we introduced audio messages and English-language

podcasts within the WeChat groups, encompassing a range of conversational clips to

more intricate materials. Following each audio post, tasks such as question-answer

exercises, summaries, or group discussions on key points were implemented to

enhance listening comprehension. In order to strengthen reading abilities, diverse

English reading materials, including articles and short stories tailored to dierent

reading levels and interests, were shared. After reading, students were encouraged to

engage in discussions, express their opinions, or complete comprehension questions,

thereby enriching their reading comprehension and critical thinking capabilities.

Various writing prompts were provided to enhance writing skills, encompassing

creative storytelling to opinion pieces. Students submitted their written work within

the WeChat group or privately, facilitating peer reviews and receiving personalized

feedback on grammar, vocabulary, and style.

Interactive challenges and quizzes were periodically organized through WeChat,

encompassing vocabulary games, grammar quizzes, and exercises for sentence

84 International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) iJIM

| Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025)

Alam

formation, often accompanied by small motivational rewards. Additionally, we

closely monitored the participation and progress of each student, oering person-

alized feedback to highlight areas for improvement and foster continuous practice.

 

The methodology to improve English language skills in students involved the

innovative use of a multimedia projecting system, aiming to harness multimedia

technology for a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

For listening skills enhancement, we utilized the system to present diverse English

audio-visual materials such as short lms, documentaries, and news clips, exposing

students to various accents and vocabularies. Post-viewing, interactive exercises

such as word gap-lling, comprehension questions, and group discussions were

conducted, reinforcing listening comprehension and analytical skills. In develop-

ing reading skills, e-book reading sessions were held using the projector, facilitating

group reading and discussing texts displayed on a large screen. This was comple-

mented by interactive vocabulary exercises, including word games and quizzes, to

build vocabulary. Critical analysis and discussions post-reading sessions furthered

comprehension and analytical abilities. For writing skills improvement, we orga-

nized writing workshops where students created essays and reports using the pro-

jection system to display writing prompts and editing tools. Peer review sessions

involved projecting students’ written work for group feedback, enhancing learning

through collective insights.

Additionally, interactive grammar and style exercises were presented using mul-

timedia tools, making learning visually stimulating and engaging. The multimedia

projecting system was central throughout this treatment, providing a platform for

displaying rich content and facilitating interactive activities. Its visual and audio

capabilities were pivotal in creating an immersive experience, vital for enhanc-

ing English listening, reading, and writing skills. This multimedia approach was

balanced with traditional teaching methods and regular assessments to monitor and

evaluate student progress eectively.

Upon completing the training program, all participants underwent a post-test to

assess their general English prociency. This evaluation and the pre-test adminis-

tered at the program’s onset comprised standard Longman English language pro-

ciency tests. Notably, dierent versions of the Longman test were utilized for the

pre-test and post-test to mitigate the potential for recall bias among the students.

Such a measure ensured that participants would not remember specic content

from the pre-test, thus maintaining the integrity of the assessment process. Both

tests were designed to possess equivalent diculty levels, adhering to the estab-

lished standards of the Longman prociency test. To further ensure uniformity in

the assessment conditions, the pre-test and post-test were conducted in a classroom

setting, providing a consistent testing atmosphere for all participants.

Given that both the pre- and post-tests consisted exclusively of objective ques-

tions, primarily in the format of multiple-choice queries, these assessments were

evaluated objectively through answer sheets. The pre- and post-tests scoring was

quantied on a scale ranging from 0 to 100, allowing for a standardized measure of

participants’ performance. This scale facilitated a clear, quantiable comparison of

prociency levels before and after the training program.

iJIM | Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025) International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) 85

Measuring the Eects of Mobile and Social Networking Technology on the Enhancement of English Language Skills: A Comparative Study

 

The data analysis for this study was performed using SPSS version 25.0, which

was selected for its robust statistical capabilities in handling complex social science

data. The process began with a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to ensure

that no pre-existing dierences in English prociency existed among the groups

at the start of the program. This was followed by a correlational analysis to exam-

ine the relationship between pre- and post-test scores, ensuring the consistency of

the measures used across the study’s timeline. The primary analytical method used

was a repeated measures one-way ANOVA (RM-ANOVA), which allowed for the

evaluation of changes in English prociency over time while controlling for initial

prociency levels. This approach facilitated a detailed analysis of the interventions’

impact by accounting for individual variations and maintaining a balanced compar-

ison across the dierent educational interventions.

 

Table 1. Score of participants across groups and tests

Google Classroom Group WeChat Group Multimedia Projecting

System Group

Pre-test Post-test Gain Pre-test Post-test Gain Pre-test Post-test Gain

Mean 41.3 52.7 11.4 40.7 47.8 7.1 40 44.9 4.9

SD 1.19 1.83 .64 1.57 2.21 .64 1.39 1.51 .12

A one-way ANOVA was conducted to evaluate dierences between unrelated

samples. The statistical analysis aimed to determine if there were signicant

disparities in English language prociency among three distinct groups at the

commencement of the program. According to the results of this analysis, the eect

attributable to the group factor was found to be not statistically signicant, as indi-

cated by the F-value of 0.174 with an associated probability value (p-value) of .735,

F (2, 137) = 0.174, p = .735. This outcome suggests no meaningful dierences in

English language prociency among the three groups at the beginning of the pro-

gram, as presented in Table 1. Consequently, this led to the assumption that at the pro-

gram’s onset, the three groups possessed a comparable overall command of English

language skills. This fundamental similarity in language prociency is crucial for

guaranteeing that any observed progress or changes in language skills during the

program can be ascribed to the program’s interventions rather than pre-existing

disparities among the groups.

Also, a complete statistical assessment was executed on the individual pre-test

and post-test scores of all 120 participants. This thorough examination focused on

elucidating the relationship between these ratings, resulting in a correlation coe-

cient (r) of .849 accompanied by a highly signicant p-value (p < .001). The presence

of such a substantial correlation coecient prompted further statistical scrutiny.

Consequently, a repeated measures one-way analysis of variance (RM-ANOVA) was

employed. This analysis possessed a particularly rened approach, as it entailed

matching participants across the three groups based on their initial pre-test scores,

thereby ensuring a balanced and equitable comparison.

86 International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) iJIM

| Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025)

Alam

The repeated measures one-way ANOVA was employed to assess the statisti-

cal signicance of the variations in post-test scores between the three participant

groups. This analysis showed a signicant main eect of the group variable, indi-

cated by an F-value of 7.83 and a p-value of .04, with a partial eta squared (h²p) of

.640, F (2, 137) = 7.83 (p = .04, h²p = .640). The main eect signies that the dierences

in post-test scores among the groups were not merely due to chance but were statis-

tically signicant.

Moreover, the use of RM-ANOVA entailed further comprehensive concern, reveal-

ing that the eect of group connection on the scores after the test was extremely

statistically signicant. This can be seen through the substantial F-value of 51.08 and

a p-value less than .001. This indicates that the impact of the assigned groups on the

transformations observed in the participants’ post-test performance is noteworthy,

highlighting the signicance of group dierences in determining post-test results.

 

A comprehensive evaluation was conducted with great attention to detail, retro-

spectively evaluating the comparative ecacy of three educational interventions:

Google Classroom, WeChat, and the multimedia project. This analytical procedure

revolved around a comprehensive examination of the average improvements

attained by participants from the initial pre-test to the subsequent post-test using

each of these approaches. The Google Classroom approach emerged as the most

ecacious, displaying the most remarkable average improvement at 11.4. This

signicant gure underscores that participants engaged in the Google Classroom

intervention experienced the most substantial average improvement in their scores,

moving from the pre-test to the post-test phase.

In contrast, the WeChat method displayed a mean gain of 7.1, while the multime-

dia project exhibited a mean gain of 4.9. These results, when juxtaposed with those

of Google Classroom, indicate that, although there were improvements in participant

scores in both the WeChat and multimedia Project groups, these improvements were

less pronounced than those observed in the Google Classroom group. Consequently,

these ndings lead to the inference that, on an average scale, participants involved

in the Google Classroom intervention achieved the most notable advancements in

their scores compared to their counterparts in the WeChat and multimedia project

groups. This comprehensive analysis, therefore, highlights the superior ecacy of

the Google Classroom method in elevating participant performance throughout the

intervention, as evidenced by the quantiable gains in test scores.

 DISCUSSIONS

The study’s ndings demonstrate signicant dierences in the eectiveness of

three educational interventions: Google Classroom, WeChat, and the multimedia pro-

jecting system in enhancing English language prociency among participants. Initial

analyses conrmed that there were no pre-existing disparities in language skills

among the groups, ensuring that any subsequent gains could be attributed directly to

the interventions. Comparative evaluations showed that the Google Classroom group

experienced the most substantial improvements in language prociency. In contrast,

the gains observed in the WeChat and multimedia Projecting System groups, while

positive, were less pronounced. This outcome highlights the superior ecacy of

iJIM | Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025) International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) 87

Measuring the Eects of Mobile and Social Networking Technology on the Enhancement of English Language Skills: A Comparative Study

the Google Classroom intervention in achieving notable advancements in language

skills, conrming its potential as a powerful tool in language education. The ndings

suggest that the eective integration of digital learning environments such as Google

Classroom can signicantly enhance educational outcomes compared to traditional

or less interactive digital platforms. Research on mobile-based social media addic-

tion surged over the last ve years, shifting focus from smartphone addiction to

social media’s complex interplay with individual, social, and environmental factors.

Eective social media usage via mobile requires balanced online engagement,

parental guidance, emotional intelligence, and healthy social norms [33].

The current study’s ndings advocate integrating diverse learning modalities

consistent with prior research [34], [35], [36], [37]. The synergistic combination

of face-to-face, online, and self-paced learning approaches has enriched learning

experiences, elevated learning outcomes, and strengthened student engagement

[38], [39]. In this context, Google Classroom emerged as an eective tool, seamlessly

integrating face-to-face instruction with online resources and self-directed learn-

ing elements. Conversely, the use of WeChat in educational settings appeared to

dilute the ecacy of face-to-face instruction by enabling students to engage via

their mobile devices, potentially detracting from direct teacher-student interactions.

Additionally, the deployment of traditional multimedia projection systems may have

inadvertently hindered self-directed learning by compelling students to adhere

strictly to the teacher’s pace, thereby limiting their autonomy in the learning pro-

cess. Consequently, it is logical to observe that student engagement and learning

outcomes facilitated through Google Classroom are signicantly superior to those

achieved via WeChat. Furthermore, the engagement and outcomes of WeChat usage

surpass those attained through traditional multimedia projection systems. This

hierarchy in the ecacy of dierent educational tools underscores the critical role

of technology in shaping contemporary learning environments.

Incorporating experiential learning through platforms such as Google Classroom

and WeChat may have enhanced students’ English language skills. Experiential learn-

ing, characterized by student engagement in direct experiences and the construction

of knowledge, has been identied as a potent approach to augmenting student learn-

ing experiences [40]. In the context of the Google Classroom-assisted environment,

students were aorded opportunities to engage actively with the material, such as

responding verbally via an audio recorder, accessing PowerPoint slides directly, and

participating in polls related to questions posed by the teacher. This format likely

provided a rich experiential learning environment, thereby facilitating an improve-

ment in their learning.

In contrast, the WeChat-assisted class may not have oered the same level of

experiential learning as Google Classroom. The dierence in the depth and breadth

of experiential learning opportunities between these platforms could account for

the varying degrees of eectiveness in language skill enhancement observed among

students. Additionally, compared to WeChat, the traditional multimedia projecting

system appeared even less eective in providing experiential learning opportu-

nities. This disparity in the provision of experiential learning experiences across

the dierent platforms likely provides a basis for accepting the research hypoth-

eses, which suggest varying levels of eectiveness in language skill enhancement

attributable to the dierent educational technologies employed.

A collaboration-oriented rationale may also support the hypothesis’s accep-

tance. As Alioon and Delialioglu [41] have noted, genuine collaborative mobile

learning activities can signicantly enhance students’ English language learning.

One of the notable features of Google Classroom, as highlighted by Yu [42], is its

88 International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) iJIM

| Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025)

Alam

robust capacity to facilitate collaboration. Within this platform, students can signal

their content comprehension by clicking on a specic slide, allowing teachers to

gauge understanding and promptly adjust the teaching pace. Additionally, Google

Classroom enables students to actively engage in the learning process by leaving

messages, sending barrages, and directly collaborating with peers, while teachers

can respond to student inquiries within the same platform.

Collaboration is further extended on the WeChat platform, accessible to all par-

ticipants involved in the educational process. It enables a continuous and dynamic

interaction between students and teachers. In contrast, traditional multimedia pro-

jection systems, such as Rain Classroom, do not oer the same level of dynamic,

collaborative platforms as Google Classroom and WeChat. This lack of interactive

capabilities in traditional systems could further justify the acceptance of the research

hypotheses, emphasizing the pivotal role of collaborative and interactive technolo-

gies in enhancing language learning.

 CONCLUSION

The study indicates that specialized mobile learning technologies have a signif-

icant positive impact on English learning outcomes. Google Classroom, in particu-

lar, proves to be more eective than social media tools such as WeChat, which are

also utilized for educational purposes but with less success. The study also notes

that traditional instructional tools, such as multimedia projection systems, do not

adequately enhance student learning outcomes. Unlike Google Classroom and

WeChat, these conventional tools lack the same level of engagement and interactive

learning experience, which are essential in educational settings. This evident dif-

ference in eectiveness between mobile learning technologies and traditional tools

highlights the importance of dedicated, mobile-based educational technologies in

modern educational settings. These technologies oer tailored, exible, and accessi-

ble learning solutions better suited to meet the needs of contemporary students and

educational standards. Furthermore, the study demonstrates the superior ecacy of

specialized mobile learning technologies such as Google Classroom over traditional

and social media-based educational tools, highlighting their signicant impact on

enhancing English learning outcomes. It contributes to the academic eld by provid-

ing empirical support for integrating advanced digital tools into educational strate-

gies for more eective learning.

 

This investigation specically chose Google Classroom to represent mobile learn-

ing technologies and WeChat as an example of social media tools, which may not

encompass the diversity of other educational aids. Future research could broaden the

scope by including a more comprehensive array of learning assistants. Additionally,

given the study’s exclusive focus on EFL contexts, the applicability of its ndings

to dierent educational environments remains uncertain, suggesting a need for

cautious generalization beyond this specic setting.

Future research endeavors might benet from creating severe games to enhance

student learning outcomes. This approach could be ecient in applying virtual plat-

forms and their technologies in educational contexts. The integration of gamication

strategies in learning platforms can signicantly improve the learning of English.

iJIM | Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025) International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) 89

Measuring the Eects of Mobile and Social Networking Technology on the Enhancement of English Language Skills: A Comparative Study

The complexity and multifaceted nature of serious game development necessitate

an interdisciplinary approach. The intricacies in designing these educational tools

extend beyond the scope of a single discipline, highlighting the need for collabora-

tive eorts across various elds of study.

 

“This study is supported via funding from Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University

project number (PSAU/2025/R/1446).”

 

[1] G. J. Hwang, C. L. Lai, and S. Y. Wang, “Seamless ipped learning: A mobile technology-

enhanced ipped classroom with eective learning strategies,” Journal of Computers in

Education, vol. 2, pp. 449–473, 2015. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40692-015-0043-0

[2] M. Triana, H. Herman, B. Sinurat, and D. E. Silalahi, “An analysis of students perception on

the use of google classroom in english language learning,” Cetta: Jurnal Ilmu Pendidikan,

vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 607–618, 2021. https://doi.org/10.37329/cetta.v4i3.1474

[3] T. Yao, “A communicative English-speaking supplementary curriculum: Using WeChat to

develop Chinese EFL learners’ speaking uency,” Master’s Projects and Capstones, 919,

2019. https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/919

[4] P. A. Ertmer and A. T. Ottenbreit-Leftwich, “Teacher technology change: How knowledge,

condence, beliefs, and culture intersect,” Journal of research on Technology in Education,

vol. 42, no. 3, pp. 255–284, 2010. https://doi.org/10.1080/15391523.2010.10782551

[5] B. L. Moorhouse and K. M. Wong, “Blending asynchronous and synchronous digital

technologies and instructional approaches to facilitate remote learning,” Journal

of Computers in Education, vol. 9, pp. 51–70, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40692-

021-00195-8

[6] T. Poell and J. Van Dijck, “Social media and new protest movements,” in The SAGE

Handbook of Social Media, 2018, pp. 546–561. https://doi.org/10.4135/9781473984066.n31

[7] T. Vandeyar, “The academic turn: Social media in higher education,” Education

and Information Technologies, vol. 25, pp. 5617–5635, 2020. https://doi.org/10.1007/

s10639-020-10240-1

[8] A. Syakur, “The eectiveness of English learning media through google classroom in

Higher Education,” Britain International of Linguistics, Arts and Education (BIoLAE)

Journal, vol. 2, no. 1, pp. 475–483, 2020. https://doi.org/10.33258/biolae.v2i1.218

[9] Z. Sun, C. H. Lin, J. You, H. jiao Shen, S. Qi, and L. Luo, “Improving the English-speaking

skills of young learners through mobile social networking,” Computer Assisted Language

Learning, vol. 30, nos. 3–4, pp. 304–324, 2017. https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.

2017.1308384

[10] K. Georgouli, I. Skalkidis, and P. Guerreiro, “A framework for adopting LMS to introduce

e-learning in a traditional course,” Journal of Educational Technology & Society, vol. 11,

no. 2, pp. 227–240, 2008.

[11] S. Alam, A. Hameed, A. Kobylarek, M. Madej, and F. Ahmad, “Drama approaches

across higher education in the English curriculum: Students perspectives on holistic

activity-based teaching,” XLinguae, vol. 16, no. 2, pp. 54–68, 2023. https://doi.org/10.18355/

XL.2023.16.02.05

90 International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) iJIM

| Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025)

Alam

[12] S. Alam, A. Hameed, M. Madej, and A. Kobylarek, “Perception and practice of using

Articial Intelligence in education: An opinion based study,” XLinguae, vol. 17, no. 1,

pp. 216–233, 2024. https://doi.org/10.18355/XL.2024.17.01.15

[13] S. Alam, M. Madej, W. Wardha, and A. Kobylarek, “Utilizing process drama in education:

A study of pedagogical perceptions,” XLinguae, vol. 17, no. 2, pp. 132–149, 2024. https://

doi.org/10.18355/XL.2024.17.02.09

[14] S. Alam, M. Usama, Md Moshabbir Alam, I. Jabeen, and F. Ahmad, “Articial intelligence

in global world: A case study of grammarly as E-tool on ESL learners’ of Darul Uloom

Nadwa,” International Journal of Information and Education Technology (IJIET), vol. 13,

no. 11, pp. 1741–1747, 2023. https://doi.org/10.18178/ijiet.2023.13.11.1984

[15] S. Alam, M. Usama, A. Hameed, and S. Iliyas, “Analysing Facebook mobile usage:

ecacy and ESL learners’ writing prociency,” International Journal of Interactive

Mobile Technologies (iJIM), vol. 18, no. 3, pp. 60–74, 2024. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijim.

v18i03.44959

[16] M. Usama, S. Alam, A. Hameed, F. Ahmad, and S. Iliyas, “Web-Based vs. mixed mode

instruction utilizing e-learning via LMS: A comparative study,” International Journal of

Information and Education Technology (IJIET), vol. 14, no. 4, pp. 612–619, 2024. https://doi.

org/10.18178/ijiet.2024.14.4.2084

[17] S. Alam, F. Ahmad, and Y. Nickolaeva Biryukova, “Incorporating articial intelligence

and MALL strategies in EFL classrooms: Interactive pedagogical praxis,” Journal of

Education Culture and Society, vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 181–198, 2024. https://doi.org/10.15503/

jecs2024.1.181.198

[18] R. A. Al-Maroof and M. Al-Emran, “Research trends in ipped classroom: A systematic

review,” in Recent Advances in Intelligent Systems and Smart Applications, Studies in

Systems, Decision and Control, M. Al-Emran, K. Shaalan, and A. Hassanien, Eds., Springer,

Cham, vol. 295, 2021, pp. 253–275. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-47411-9_15

[19] B. Zheng, M. Warschauer, C. H. Lin, and C. Chang, “Learning in one-to-one laptop

environments: A meta-analysis and research synthesis,” Review of Educational Research,

vol. 86, no. 4, pp. 1052–1084, 2016. https://doi.org/10.3102/0034654316628645

[20] A. Anuar Adam and Z. Khairuddin, “Google classroom as a tool for blended learning,”

International Journal of Modern Languages and Applied Linguistics (IJMAL), vol. 5, no. 1,

pp. 1–13, 2021.

[21] K. Purcell, J. Buchanan, and L. Friedrich, “The impact of digital tools on student writing

and how writing is taught in schools,” Washington, DC: Pew Research Center, vol. 16, 2013.

[22] G. S. Babu and K. S. MA, “Role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

in higher education: A study,” International Journal of Multidisciplinary Education and

Research, vol. 9, no. 5, pp. 103–109, 2018.

[23] J. Whalen, “Should teachers be trained in emergency remote teaching? Lessons learned

from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Journal of Technology and Teacher Education, vol. 28,

no. 2, pp. 189–199, 2020.

[24] J. Zhang and X. Zheng, “Study on the application of WeChat in college English listening

and speaking course,” in 2018 Seventh International Conference of Educational Innovation

through Technology (EITT), 2018, pp. 220–224. https://doi.org/10.1109/EITT.2018.00051

[25] C. F. Pamintuan, D. G. Mallari, N. T. Garcia, J. P. Galang, and R. M. B. Buduan, “The use

of WeChat application on CFL learners’,” Vocabulary Acquisition. TESOL International

Journal, vol. 13, no. 4, pp. 26–38, 2018.

[26] H. Duan, X. Wei, and Y. Li, “Eects of WeChat on english as L2 mobile learning and

teaching,” in Computer Science and Education, ICCSE 2022, Communications in Computer

and Information Science, W. Hong and Y. Weng, Eds., Springer, Singapore, vol. 1813, 2023,

pp. 423–437. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-2449-3_37

iJIM | Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025) International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) 91

Measuring the Eects of Mobile and Social Networking Technology on the Enhancement of English Language Skills: A Comparative Study

[27] J. A. M. Farver, C. J. Lonigan, and S. Eppe, “Eective early literacy skill development

for young Spanish‐speaking English language learners: An experimental study

of two methods,” Child Development, vol. 80, no. 3, pp. 703–719, 2009. https://doi.

org/10.1111/j.1467-8624.2009.01292.x

[28] H. Wang and P. Crosthwaite, “The aordances of WeChat Voice Messaging for Chinese

EFL learners during private tutoring,” Computer Assisted Language Learning, vol. 22,

no. 1, pp. 223–245, 2021.

[29] X. Huang, “WeChat-based teaching for an immersion cultural exchange program –

a case study in CFL,” Smart Learning Environments, vol. 6, 2019. https://doi.org/10.1186/

s40561-019-0087-0

[30] P. C. Suppiah, K. Kaur, N. Arumugam, and M. Idham, “Social media in ESL classroom:

WeChat,” International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences,

vol. 12, no. 8, pp. 967–982, 2022. https://doi.org/10.6007/IJARBSS/v12-i8/14667

[31] K. Xi, Y. Nie, N. Yang, C. Cai, and A. Zhang, “The WeChat mini-program for oral English

evaluation based on the smart listening algorithm,” in Cognitive Computing – ICCC 2021,

ICCC 2021, in Lecture Notes in Computer Science, R. Xu, C. Cai, and L. J. Zhang, Eds.,

Springer, Cham, vol. 12992, 2022, pp. 55–62. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-96419-1_6

[32] S. Altam, “Inuence of social media on EFL yemeni learners in indian universities

during covid-19 pandemic,” Linguistics and Culture Review, vol. 4, no. 1, pp. 35–47, 2020.

https://doi.org/10.21744/lingcure.v4n1.19

[33] T. Tülübaş, T. Karakose, and S. Papadakis, “A holistic investigation of the relationship

between digital addiction and academic achievement among students,” European Journal

of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education, vol. 13, no. 10, pp. 2006–2034, 2023.

https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe13100143

[34] N. A. Alzahrani and M. A. Abdullah, “Student engagement eectiveness in e-learning

system,” Biosc. Biotech. Res. Comm., vol. 12, no. 1, 2019. https://doi.org/10.21786/

bbrc/12.1/24

[35] M. Meyliana, A. N. Hidayanto, and E. K. Budiardjo, “Evaluation of social media channel

preference for student engagement improvement in universities using entropy

and TOPSIS method,” Journal of Industrial Engineering and Management, vol. 8, no. 5,

pp. 1676–1697, 2015. https://doi.org/10.3926/jiem.1652

[36] N. J. Morris, H. Christie, and J. Barber, “It’s one of the rst times I’ve felt fully engaged:

Developing student engagement using blogging as a form of assessment,” Journal of

Geography in Higher Education, vol. 43, no. 3, pp. 343–361, 2019. https://doi.org/10.1080/

03098265.2019.1612862

[37] E. Norton, Y. Li, L. R. Mason, and R. A. Washington-Allen, “Assessing the impact of a

geospatial data collection app on student engagement in environmental education,”

Education Sciences, vol. 9, no. 2, p. 118, 2019. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci9020118

[38] D. R. Serrano, M. A. Dea‐Ayuela, E. Gonzalez‐Burgos, A. Serrano‐Gil, and A. Lalatsa,

“Technology‐enhanced learning in higher education: How to enhance student

engagement through blended learning,” European Journal of Education, vol. 54, no. 2,

pp. 273–286, 2019. https://doi.org/10.1111/ejed.12330

[39] S. Alam, “Ecacy of mixed model instruction to improve English language skills of

business management students: An experimental study,” Journal of Education Culture

and Society, vol. 15, no. 2, pp. 387–402, 2024. https://doi.org/10.15503/jecs2024.2.387.402

[40] H. Li, A. Öchsner, and W. Hall, “Application of experiential learning to improve student

engagement and experience in a mechanical engineering course,” European Journal of

Engineering Education, vol. 44, no. 3, pp. 283–293, 2019. https://doi.org/10.1080/03043797.

2017.1402864

92 International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies (iJIM) iJIM

| Vol. 19 No. 1 (2025)

Alam

[41] Y. Alioon and O. Delialioğlu, “The eect of authentic m‐learning activities on student

engagement and motivation,” British Journal of Educational Technology, vol. 50, no. 2,

pp. 655–668, 2019. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.12559

[42] Z. Yu and H. Yi, “Acceptance and eectiveness of rain classroom in linguistics classes,”

International Journal of Mobile and Blended Learning (IJMBL), vol. 12, no. 2, pp. 77–90,

2020. https://doi.org/10.4018/IJMBL.2020040105

 AUTHOR

Dr. Sohaib Alam is working as an Assistant Professor of English at the

Department of English, College of Science and Humanities, Prince Sattam Bin

Abdulaziz University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He holds a Ph.D. in English Language

Teaching (ELT) from Aligarh Muslim University, India and also CELTA certied

by Cambridge. His areas of interest are Applied Linguistics, Pragmatics, Teaching

Methods, Blended Learning, and Pedagogic Theory. He has presented papers at both

national and international conferences, published research articles and papers in

Scopus and Web of Science indexed journals. He has been teaching English for over

5 years (E-mail: s.alam@psau.edu.sa).

Credit to the Original Article | Explore More of Their Work If You Found This Article Enjoyable.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387989882_Measuring_the_Effects_of_Mobile_and_Social_Networking_Technology_on_the_Enhancement_of_English_Language_Skills_A_Comparative_Study