Implications of Contemporary English Usage for Teaching and Learning of English as a Second Language

Abstract

The institutionalization of English in Nigeria as a language of commerce, public communication and administration, a medium of instruction in our educational system and as a national bond is very commendable. But as a second language, English is acquired mainly through the school system of formal teaching and learning for communicative and linguistic competence. The advent of the social media, which in itself is a product of communication technology, has greatly impacted positively on the English language albeit few negative challenges. This paper examines the impact of technological innovation on language with particular emphasis on the societal media, using Halliday’s systemic functional grammar, as its theoretical base. The study concludes that many innovations have been introduced into the English language which could have possible implications on the teaching and learning of English as a second language in Nigeria today.

Key Terms: English Language, Technological Innovations, Social Media, Teaching and Learning, Second Language.