Effects of mobile messaging applications on writing skill

Abstract

As technology rapidly advances, integrating new tools into teaching becomes increasingly essential. Mobile phone applications are widely used in education, yet WhatsApp remains underutilized in language instruction. This study aims to explore the impact of WhatsApp on university students' writing skills. Forty international students were selected through convenience sampling to participate in a single-group pre-test post-test design, where they responded to specific writing prompts. Their writing samples were evaluated using a standardized rubric, and the pre-test and post-test scores were analyzed with SPSS using a paired sample t-test. The findings indicate a significant positive correlation between students' frequency of WhatsApp use and their writing improvement. Additionally, providing examples of writing by the teacher or students in the WhatsApp group contributed to better writing outcomes. The study concludes that WhatsApp, through writing exercises and group vocabulary practice, positively influences students' writing abilities. Furthermore, the use of messaging apps enhances participation, interaction, collaboration, and overall language proficiency. These results underscore the potential of WhatsApp as an effective tool for language instruction in higher education. Ultimately, the study highlights the need for educators and curriculum designers to embrace mobile technologies like WhatsApp to foster improved writing skills and enhance student engagement in language learning contexts.