Huseyin Bicen
Near East University, Cyprus
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Sensor Netw Data Commun
This article examines whether using Facebook and other mobile applications for educational purposes affects the opinions of pre-service teachers attending relevant classes. A quantitative and experimental approach is adopted that makes use of blended and online groups, as well as pre- and post-tests. The study spanned more than eight weeks (45 hours in total). Learning materials were uploaded to the course�s Facebook page using mobile applications such as SlideShare, Viddy, Dropbox, and WiZiQ. Facebook, contributed to a notion whereby students perceived themselves to be participants in an actual classroom. This configuration allowed them to share information visually and vocally, subsequently enriching course content; in parallel, it also facilitated access to classroom materials regardless of locality, thus increasing learner motivation. Participants comprised third-year pre-service teachers. The research results revealed that Facebook integration exhibited a positive effect on student learning, motivation, success, classroom interest, creativity, and self-expression. The positive viewpoints expressed in this study are likely attributable to Facebook�s facilitation of information sharing via various mobile applications, coupled with the ability to follow other users and information sources. The tools discussed are simultaneously mobile and web-based, allowing students to pursue their education in either environment using a smart device or PC respectively.
Email: huseyin_bicen@hotmail.com
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