Impact of Short Message Service Language on Second Language Learning Habits Among University Graduates: Revisited

Abstract

This study explores the phenomenon of short message service language as a variation that has garnered significant attention in the global community. It investigates how the language used in short message service communication introduces new forms of written communication that can benefit individuals academically and socially, particularly in terms of writing skills and language learning habits. The study focused on a sample of 100 university graduates of both gender who are regular mobile phone users and predominantly communicate via short message service rather than making phone calls or sending full-length texts to peers, teachers, and friends. The primary aim was to assess the extent to which short message service usage enhances second language learning habits among the participants. It examined how individuals adapt their language use and develop new writing formats to economize on space and time in short message service communication. Quantitative data were qualitatively analyzed to uncover the impacts of short message service on the respondents' language learning and production habits. The findings indicate that short message service communication has brought about considerable linguistic variations among the participants, often unconsciously affecting their proficiency in the target language and their writing habits. Participants commonly utilized abbreviations, unconventional spellings, and simplified grammatical structures inherent to short message service language to expedite communication. While this adaptation facilitated quick and efficient communication via mobile devices, it also posed challenges in terms of adhering to standard spelling, grammar, and syntactic rules of the English language, which are often perceived as complex. The study suggests that while short message service language can enhance communication efficiency, especially in informal contexts, its frequent use may inadvertently influence the learners' grasp of the second language. Overreliance on short message service language variants could potentially distort the structure and purity of second language learning, particularly among adult university students studying English as a second language. It underscores the importance for second language learners, especially university students, to be mindful of balancing informal short message service communication with formal language practices to maintain proficiency and accuracy in their language acquisition journey.