Use of Microblogging, Social Networking, and Short Messages in E-learning for Information Culture Building

This work examines the effect of microblogging, social networking, and short messaging in e-learning on the process of information culture formation. The current study develops and tests an experimental Moodle-based course in management psychology for master-level students, which implies the use of Instagram. Participants were recruited from the Higher School of Economics and Business (Al-Farabi Kazakh National University) together with the Institute of Economics and Management in Agribusiness (Russian State Agrarian University - Timiryazev Moscow Agricultural Academy (RSAU - MTAA)). Students were asked to briefly express their thoughts, attitudes, and views toward the given topic on Instagram by creating blog posts and leave motivational and constructive comments under the blogs of other group members. Online surveys were used, which investigated the effect of innovative teaching (use of microblogs) on learning and learners' emotional responses. The study discusses the use of microblogging on Instagram as an educational tool. The majority of respondents reported a positive effect of microblogs. According to learners, the use of Instagram gave the learning journey a makeover, making it relevant, effortless, and consistent. Using microblogs created favourable conditions for collaborative learning, creative self-expression, and systematization of knowledge and experiences. Students reported that doing microblogs was entertaining, motivating, and beneficial to their critical thinking, writing skills, and communication competency.