Students’ Perceptions of Informal Learning of English in Virtual Online Communities

Abstract

In this research, we have aimed to discern the link lying between the informal learning of the English language and virtual online communities. So the research attempted to answer the research question that goes as such: What are the English language students’ attitudes and beliefs toward virtual online communities? In order to answer this question, a questionnaire and an interview were administered to a sample of first year L.M.D students at Abdelhafid Boussouf University Center-Mila. The results revealed cannot be generalized but have shown a clear rapport between the students’ proficiency of English and the use of social networking sites and multiplayer digital games. Virtual online communities in all shapes have proven to boost students’ motivations, grammar and vocabulary skills; therefore, informal learning is as a powerful learning vessel as any other. The regular use of virtual online communities was found to positively influence students’ perceptions of informal learning of English. Gendre, age, educataional level did not significantly influence students’ perceptions of informal learning of English in virtual online communities.