The Application of Social Networking Sites (SNSs) in e-Learning and Online Education Environments: A Review of Publications in SSCI- Indexed Journals from 2004 to 2013

摘要

In this paper, the authors reviewed the empirical studies on social networking sites (SNSs), especially those focused on adopting SNSs for students 'learning, published in SSCI journals from 2004 to 2013. It was found that the number of articles has significantly increased, particularly after 2009. Among the 76 published papers, most studies were conducted in higher education, as well as in education domain. Furthermore, the qualitative research method was used more in SNSs and e-learning research. The findings in this study may provide reference and directions for future research, and help teachers to consider using SNSs in their online courses.