Investigating Algerian University Students’ Practices and Perceptions of Using Facebook Messenger in EFL Contexts

The present study seeks to examine the practices and perceptions of university students regarding the use and the importance of Facebook Messenger as a platform for English as a Foreign Language learning (EFL).It aims, specifically, to identify how students use messenger application in EFL contexts to improve their communication skills, collaborate with peers, and develop different aspects of their language skills.Moreover, the investigation explores students' attitudes towards the implementation of social media tools and Facebook messenger in particular in academic language learning and their perceptions of the platform's effectiveness in enhancing informal and formal learning experiences.Data were collected through a questionnaire addressed to 120 university students enrolled in the department of English of Belhadj Bouchaib university of Ain Temouchent, Algeria.The quantitative and qualitative research methods have been adopted for the objective of this study.The quantitative analysis identifies the usage patterns whereas the qualitative one insights to capture students perceptions and experiences with Messenger as a language learning tool.The findings reveal that the use of messenger application helps students to learn English in both formal and informal contexts.This platform facilitates the share of information among students, allows the exchange of ideas and promotes discussions with peers and teachers through collaborative communication and authentic language exposure.The findings further indicate that EFL students have positive attitudes towards using messenger as a social media learning tool, considering it an accessible, flexible, and motivating aid that complements traditional classroom instruction.Based on these findings, the study suggests that integrating social media tools like Messenger into EFL curricula can foster language acquisition, learning engagements, collaboration, and autonomy.It highlights the potential of digital communication platforms to create dynamic and interactive learning environments.Hence, educators and curriculum designers are encouraged to leverage social media for enhancing language learning outcomes.The study also calls for further research into best practices for effectively implementing such tools in diverse educational contexts.