FACILITATING LANGUAGE LEARNING THROUGH INDIRECT TECHNIQUES USING SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS (Pages 233-243) by Mr. Rishi Bhargava in THE ENGLISH RESEARCH EXPRESS / ISSN:2321-1164 (Online); 2347-2642 (Print)

Using social networking sites for online computer assisted out of classroom language learning provides several advantages as far as ease of conducting such sessions are concerned for language teachers who lack knowledge of more professionally available real time tools and software, as well as students unfamiliar with such tools. Most students are well versed in the usage of social networking sites, which are accessible from diverse locations at all times. However, use of social networking sites has drawbacks, which involve setting up proper control and monitoring mechanisms by the facilitator. This paper focuses on using ‘Facebook’ as a medium for online out of classroom language learning to compare two specific techniques of language learning, the first being language learning by direct means and the second through indirect techniques where language learning is the secondary focus. The paper analyzes the research findings of these two modes of language learning. Such online computer aided language learning (CALL) using out of classroom discussions serves as a useful extension of the formal classroom teaching. It can be useful where contact hours are insufficient, and such online real time discussions can generate keen participation amongst the net savvy younger generation of learners. Keywords: Computer aided language learning, direct and indirect learning techniques, online out of classroom discussions, real time tools and software, social networking sites.