Innovation in Language Learning

This study investigates the impact of Discord, a social networking service (SNS), on the L2 English speaking performance and attitudes of university preparatory students. Utilizing a mixed-methods design, the research involved 52 students at a Turkish state university, categorized into an experimental group (n=21) and a control group (n=31). For eight weeks, the experimental group engaged in weekly, structured collaborative speaking tasks via Discord, while the control group received traditional classroom instruction. Quantitative findings indicated that both groups experienced a statistically significant decrease in speaking scores from the initial proficiency exam to the final assessment, likely due to end-of-semester fatigue or external exam stress. However, the decline was less pronounced in the Discord-supported group, suggesting a protective effect on performance. Qualitative data revealed that students perceived Discord as a low-anxiety environment that enhanced their self-confidence, peer interaction, and motivation. Participants particularly valued the platform's voice channels and real-time interaction capabilities for authentic communication, despite encountering technical challenges such as internet instability. The study concludes that while Discord did not yield a statistically significant improvement in grades compared to traditional methods, it fostered essential affective benefits and high engagement, making it a viable tool for digital language education.