The Effect of Instagram on Senior High Schools Students’ Vocabulary

Abstract

This research investigates how Grade XI senior high school students utilize Instagram for vocabulary enhancement and the platform's impact on their language proficiency. Employing a qualitative approach, the research uses interviews to gather data from Grade XI students. Findings reveal that students actively engage with diverse content on Instagram, employing strategies like dictionary apps and Google Translate to understand new vocabulary. Instagram's visual and interactive nature, coupled with incidental learning opportunities, significantly contributes to vocabulary development, as evidenced by students' increased confidence and active use of new words in their communication. The study concludes that Instagram serves as a valuable tool for incidental vocabulary learning, complementing traditional methods. It suggests further research into the long-term impact of Instagram on vocabulary retention and the development of pedagogical frameworks for integrating Instagram into language learning.