The Use of Technology in Sustaining Positive Attitude in English as a Second Language Learning

Abstract

The second language teaching and learning are conducted purely through traditional face to face modes even at this age of the advancement in technology at the tertiary level in Sri Lanka. The barriers and challenges in providing full fledged technology based Second language learning programs are still prevalent in the universities which have to be developed in order to sustain positive attitude in English as second language (ESL) learning. This study was conducted as an attempt to explore whether the use of technology will enable the learners in sustaining positive attitude in ESL learning. This is a qualitative and quantitative study based on questionnaires issued to the participants and observation from the staff. A convenient sample of first year students from the Faculty of Management and Commerce Studies students were selected and utilized as the basis for conducting the research. The researcher used tables and charts to analyze quantitative data, while qualitative analysis was based on observations of the teachers. The results showed that there is a positive correlation between the use of technology and in sustaining positive attitude in ESL. This study recommends that the use of new technology has a positive impact in sustaining positive attitude in ESL. Lastly the undergraduates of the university with less interest in learning the L2 could be motivated and enabled to sustain positive attitude in learning the L2.