Exploring the Impact of Social Media on EFL Reading Preferences and Habits

Reading is a fundamental skill for language learners, particularly those studying English as a Foreign Language (EFL).It plays a crucial role in cognitive development, language acquisition, and the cultivation of critical thinking.In today's digital age, where social media coexists with the necessity of reading for both enjoyment and academic pursuits, there is a dynamic interplay that shapes the reading habits and preferences of EFL learners.This research aims to investigate the impact of social media on the reading habits and preferences of Algerian EFL students.To achieve this objective, a descriptive, multimethod approach is employed, using an online questionnaire with close-and open-ended questions to gather insights from the target population.Results revealed that Facebook and Instagram impacted the EFL reading preferences among Algerian EFL students.In addition, participants identified various advantages, including enhanced access to diverse reading materials, exposure to a wide range of perspectives and ideas, and the ability to stay current with prevailing trends and topics.However, drawbacks were also highlighted, including potential distractions hindering longer, in-depth reading, a diminished attention span during extended reading sessions, and a tendency to favour visually engaging content over text-heavy materials.This study contributes to the existing body of literature by examining the intersection of social media and reading habits among Algerian EFL students.Understanding the dynamics of this relationship is crucial for educators, curriculum developers, and policymakers seeking to adapt language learning strategies to the evolving preferences of students in the digital age.