Students’ Perception towards Technology in Learning English as a Foreign Language: A Case Study of Higher Secondary Students of Pabna, Bangladesh

Abstract

The ever increasing impacts of globalization and technological development have transformed our learning patterns to a large extent. Learning English as a foreign language is not an exception as technology pervades all aspects of modern life in general and the communication by using English language in particular. The challenges of learning English in Bangladesh are many and Pabna is one of the leading districts. This paper attempts to examine higher secondary level students’ attitude and perception towards their technology skill, usage patterns, perceived benefits of and challenges to using technology in learning English. To meet the research objectives, this study depends upon relevant literatures, documents, and observations and carries out questionnaire survey. One hundred and twenty (n=120) students from three government colleges of Pabna are randomly selected for interview. The findings indicate that technology tools like computer softwares, social networking websites, online videos, mp3 podcasts, smart phone and tablet apps have positive impacts and can be very much effective in improving students’ language skills. It is expected that outcome of this study will provide potential pedagogical implications for developing English learning skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening) and establish ground for further research in this area.