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@article{196986,
        author = {SARAT BABU KODALI},
        title = {Social Media as a Tool for English Language Development: A Critical Analysis},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {12},
        number = {11},
        pages = {5756-5763},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=196986},
        abstract = {The increasing integration of social media into everyday life has significantly influenced the process of English language learning, particularly in multilingual contexts like India. This paper critically examines the role of social media platforms such as WhatsApp, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook as tools for English language development. Drawing upon recent studies and literature from India, with specific relevance to Andhra Pradesh, the study explores how social media facilitates the enhancement of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills among learners. The analysis reveals that social media provides authentic exposure to language, encourages interactive learning, and promotes learner autonomy. At the same time, it highlights certain challenges, including the use of non-standard language, grammatical inaccuracies, distraction, and overdependence on digital platforms. The study adopts a qualitative approach based on secondary data to evaluate both the pedagogical potential and limitations of social media in English language acquisition. The findings suggest that while social media cannot replace formal classroom instruction, it serves as an effective supplementary tool when used judiciously. The paper concludes by emphasising the need for guided and purposeful integration of social media into English language teaching, particularly in regions like Andhra Pradesh, where digital learning opportunities are rapidly expanding.},
        keywords = {social media, English language learning, digital literacy, India, ICT, communication skills.},
        month = {April},
        }