Social networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook and My Space have experience rapid worldwide growth. It is crucial that this global phenomenon be investigated within the South African context. Social networking is a relatively new trend in South Africa and there is a paucity of academic literature on the topic. This quantitative study investigated one of the most popular social networking websites to date, namely Facebook. Facebook is a social networking website which was launched in early 2004. The primary research question focused on determining the usage patterns of South African Facebook users. In specific, the study investigated the purposes for which the site was used, the self-reported substitution of Facebook usage for face-to-face interaction and the relationship between Facebook affinity and Facebook use. A survey research design was used to collect data via an electronic questionnaire posted on Facebook. The theoretical point of departure was post-positivist. Media theories applied to the phenomenon under investigation include the uses and gratifications theory and the theory of the niche. The findings suggest that Facebook is primarily used for its intended purpose of communication. The respondents reported the gratification of versatile (multipurpose) communication. Furthermore, only half of the sample reported privacy concerns regarding Facebook. There was no significant indication that Facebook is a substitute for face-to-face interaction. Half of the sample claimed that their interpersonal contact has increased as a result of Facebook use. In addition, in accordance with expectations, the more affiliated a person is to Facebook, the more they will use Facebook. The findings of this study conform to other studies concerning social networking and provide a South African view of the global phenomenon of social networking websites. / Dissertation (MA)--University of Pretoria, 2010. / Psychology / unrestricted

Abstract The primary aim of learning English as a second or foreign language is to develop learners’ communication skills and prepare them to use English effectively in multi-dimensional domains. Yet, major approaches and practices of actual second language learning are often related to a simplistic perspective on communication that fails to take into account the cultural and intercultural aspects of the English language as a global communication tool, i.e., a lingua franca. In contrast, this study provides insights into best practices for language teaching in diverse classroom settings by exploring how digital teaching materials can be utilized to develop intercultural competence, since today's learning materials are increasingly becoming digital. More specifically, the study focused on investigating the potential of digital teaching materials for enhancing intercultural competence among young English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners in Swedish primary schools, grades 4-6. The study employs a descriptive and analytical approach to digital learning materials and found that digital learning materials can potentially develop intercultural competence among young EFL learners. Such materials promise to allow learners to learn about other cultures and engage in activities promoting intercultural communication and critical cultural awareness. The findings of this study have important implications for all stakeholders in education, including language teachers in primary schools, publishers, and developers of (digital) learning content.