The Role of a "Family-Friendly Discord" Server in Supporting English Language Acquisition
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26418/jefle.v6i2.98645Keywords:
Discord, incidental learning, EFL, sociocultural theory, online community, English acquisitionAbstract
This study explores how an informal online community, the "Family-Friendly Discord" server supports incidental English language learning. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through interviews with four active members. The findings reveal that multimodal communication, authentic interaction, peer feedback, and shared interests in gaming and media contribute to increased confidence, motivation, and fluency. The server"™s low-pressure environment fosters spontaneous language use and collaborative learning. Grounded in Vygotsky"™s Sociocultural Theory and Krashen"™s Input Hypothesis, this study highlights the educational potential of digital affinity spaces in facilitating meaningful, social, and autonomous language development outside traditional classrooms.References
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