Abstract:

This study investigates EFL learners’ participation in an information-sharing task conducted via Google+ (G+) groups and their feedback on the use of G+ groups as the platform for the activity. A group of 25 Moroccan learners taking a communication course at a public university participated in the study. Data analyzed in this paper were derived from a threaded online discussion and an open-ended online questionnaire. Descriptive statistical analysis showed the learners’ substantial contribution to the group discussion despite the technical problems. Thematic analysis revealed that the use of G+ as a platform for the information-sharing task received very positive feedback from the participants, thus suggesting it would be a promising virtual tool and environment to promote interaction in English learning. More activities using G+ groups should be assigned for learners to practice and use communicative language. Promoting awareness of available online tools and modeling effective use of the tools are suggested to help enhance learners’ online interactions

Keywords:

Online discussion, Google+ (G+) groups, social networking tool, language learning, interaction.