Benefits of using Web 2.0 Technologies for English Language Learning: Gifted Students' Perception

摘要

The study aims to investigate the benefits of using Web 2.0 technologies in English language learning (ELL) based on the perception and experience of gifted students. The study employed a mixed-method approach, whereby a close- and open-ended questionnaire was used, in addition to semi-structured interviews. 80 Form 5 gifted students from the PERMATApintar National Gifted Center, UKM, Malaysia's gifted school, were respondents for the questionnaire, while 4 were individually interviewed. The findings showed that gifted students felt that the Web 2.0 made ELL interesting and provided an English language environment online that enhanced their learning. The use of the technology also increased their confidence and allowed them to exchange feedback on their language. The notion of "virtual critics" also facilitated gifted students' self-evaluation of their own language. Thus, educators should make use of the benefits that gifted students experience in using Web 2.0 technologies for more meaningful ELL.