THE USE OF ONLINE WEBSITES IN TEACHING FOREIGN LANGUAGES

Abstract

This article investigates the use of online websites in teaching foreign languages and provides concrete evidence of their growing impact on modern education. According to UNESCO reports, more than 65% of language learners worldwide regularly use digital platforms to support their studies, demonstrating that online resources have become an essential part of language acquisition. The study shows that educational websites such as Duolingo, BBC Learning English, Quizlet, and Coursera offer multimedia lessons, vocabulary trainers, pronunciation tools, and real-time feedback, all of which significantly improve learners’ listening, reading, and speaking skills.

Research from the British Council indicates that students who use online learning tools at least three times a week show a 20–30% improvement in vocabulary retention compared to traditional classroom learners. Furthermore, online platforms promote learner autonomy, as students can practise anytime and from any location, which increases their motivation and engagement. Teachers also benefit from digital tools, since websites provide automatic assessment systems, progress tracking, and ready-made teaching materials. However, the article also identifies the challenges associated with online learning. These include unequal access to stable internet, limited digital literacy among some teachers and students, and the risk of distraction due to non-educational online content. Despite these issues, the overall findings suggest that integrating online websites into foreign language teaching significantly enhances learning outcomes, supports personalised instruction, and prepares students for a highly digitalized world.