Social Networks as a Platform of English Language Competence of Students

Abstract

As a result of the rapid development of intercultural communication and global transformations taking place in the world since the late 90s of the twentieth century, there is a need to create a personality with a new set of qualities and competencies necessary for optimal functioning in a multicultural world. Today, for the successful performance of professional duties, it is no longer enough to be just a specialist, it is also necessary to know foreign languages that will help to follow the new achievements of world science, participate in international symposia, conferences, work in transnational teams. In this regard, the relevance of language education of students is growing  It is equally important not only to understand the spoken and written language, to express their thoughts in a foreign language, but also to be able to reach mutual understanding with foreign colleagues. That is why the foreign language teacher faces a difficult task of forming the English-language competence of students. And one of the important ways to solve this issue is the active use of social networks, which provide a wide range of opportunities for improving language skills.

The introduction of social networking sites into the educational process increases the effectiveness of learning and activates students' activities both in class and during independent work. The following scientific research should be directed to the further implementation of Internet resources for student learning, which will increase the efficiency of independent work, provide completely new opportunities for creative expression, finding and consolidating professional skills, and teachers, in turn, will allow to implement completely new forms and methods of teaching.

 It is noted that the use of social networks for learning English is gaining popularity among students. A number of tasks that a teacher solves when using social networks in the formation of English-speaking competence are listed and the most important steps for their systematized and effective use are given. Three aspects of the use of social networks in the process of teaching students a foreign language are considered.