A Study on Liberal Arts Korean Language Classes Utilizing SNS

The purpose of this study is to propose a teaching method utilizing social networking services (SNS) to enhance practical communication skills with Koreans in liberal arts Korean language classes, which cater to learners of varying levels and characteristics. Prior to presenting the teaching method, a preliminary survey was conducted, revealing that the majority of Korean language learners use SNS primarily for communication and information exchange, predominantly utilizing Facebook and Instagram in their native languages. The study focuses on the educational characteristics of SNS, such as 'knowledge expression, sharing, and feedback,' and the 'noticing function, hypothesis testing function, and metalinguistic function' of the output hypothesis, incorporating these into the design of Korean language classes utilizing SNS. As a result of the satisfaction survey of 140 students, most learners reported that using SNS helped them use grammar and practice writing and speaking in Korean, thereby boosting their confidence in Korean communication. Furthermore, learners expressed that continued use of SNS in future classes is expected to improve their Korean communication skills, and they hope to communicate and exchange information with Koreans through SNS.