Language Socialization During COVID-19: Evolving Attitudes of EFL Learners

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of English Language Teaching, Maragheh University, Maragheh, Iran

2 Department of English Language and Literature, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar, Iran

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted significant transformations in education systems globally. Consequently, this qualitative ethnographic study aimed to analyze the evolution of attitudes among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners through the lens of language socialization (LS). Additionally, the study explored the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic on the LS of Iranian EFL learners within cyberspace through prolonged engagement and triangulated data collection, including classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, researcher field notes, audio recordings, and student journals. This approach allowed for a holistic understanding of the Iranian culture from participants' perspectives. A triangulation of data was collected, comprising class observations, semi-structured interviews, researcher notes, audio recordings, and student journals. The Data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA Analytic Pro 2020. Based on the seven principles of LS, the results identified eight categories: cultural familiarity, cultural differences, the influence of foreign culture, changes in identity and behavior, online class recording, online learning, self-efficacy, and participation in virtual groups. Ultimately, this study concluded that language and culture are intrinsically intertwined and that learners' engagement with language and culture adversely impacts their socialization within the English language and culture. Furthermore, online classes were found to enhance learners' self-efficacy while reducing anxiety levels. The findings equip EFL educators with strategies for fostering adaptive language socialization during crises, while offering learners tools to navigate disruptions through reflection and virtual communities. Additionally, they guide researchers in studying attitude evolution ethnographically and urge material developers to integrate psychosocial elements into language resources for volatile environments.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Teaching English as a Second Language Quarterly
Volume 44, Issue 4
September 2025
Pages 29-54

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  • Receive Date: 22 November 2024
  • Revise Date: 21 April 2025
  • Accept Date: 20 May 2025

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