(Research on the Use of Four Major Social Media in Informal Chinese Learning Among Thai University Students - A Case Study of Khon Kaen University and Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya)

With the rapid development of Internet technology, using the Internet for informal learning has become an important way for Chinese learners to learn Chinese independently in fragmented time. Social media, with its openness, sharing features, and entertainment value, has become the most commonly used software among college students and plays a unique role in informal learning. This study used a questionnaire survey to understand Thai university students' motivation, learning needs, and preferences among four major social media platforms (Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and WeChat) in informal Chinese learning, and to compare and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of these platforms. The study found that most Thai university students were motivated by longer-term goals, and the need to expand their Chinese vocabulary and deepen their understanding of Chinese culture through informal learning. Most students were able to achieve these goals. Among the four major social media platforms, TikTok offered the best user experience for informal learning, while Instagram and WeChat had the lowest user satisfaction. Finally, corresponding countermeasures are proposed for the effective application of social media in informal Chinese learning.