Role of Netspeak as a Barrier to Learning English as a Second Language

Abstract

Following the global trend, Pakistani students are increasingly becoming dependent on netspeak. However, what differentiates them from the rest of the world is the use of Roman Urdu for netspeak as Urdu is the first language in Pakistan. This study investigates the negative impact of netspeak on the academic writing of Pakistani students of English as a second language (ESL) The population consisted of 200 bachelor's students, while the study sample was 54 bachelor's students at the University of Lahore. Convenience sampling was used to collect the data. The data was collected through a five-point Likert scale survey questionnaire. The results indicated that the students mostly used emoticons, homophones, contractions, clippings and acronyms and the netspeak acted as a barrier in correct English usage for academic writing. It was also observed that netspeak as an emerging mode of communication has become deeply rooted as the students intentionally or unintentionally used netspeak in academic writings. The study recommends the need of inculcating metalinguistic awareness amongst students for comparing correct English words with netspeak as a teaching strategy.