Using Facebook Messenger to Support Organization and Mechanics within Descriptive Essay Writing at Undergraduate Level: A Mixed Method Study

Abstract

This study investigated the effectiveness of Messenger-based text chatting in enhancing students' organization and mechanics within descriptive essay writing. A mixed-methods approach was utilized to explore Messenger's potential as a supplementary tool to traditional pedagogical practices. Sixty students were recruited through convenience sampling for participation. The experimental group (N=30) was engaged in an online text-based chatting via Messenger, while the control group (N=30) received only conventional lecture-based instruction. The findings of this mixed-methods study indicated that participants in the intervention group demonstrated better performance in descriptive essay writing compared to their counterparts. Additionally, the treatment group exhibited a positive attitude towards using Messenger, and text chatting facilitated online interaction that supported the acquisition of descriptive essay writing skills. These pedagogical implications underscore the potential of Messenger-based text chatting environments as valuable platforms for fostering active, collaborative learning in writing.