Factors Influencing Thai Undergraduate Students’ Use of Emojis in Facebook Messenger Communication

Abstract

This study explores the factors influencing undergraduate students' use of emojis in Facebook Messenger communication through a mixed-methods approach, incorporating quantitative from via Google Forms surveys and qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews, open-ended questions, and real chat data. Data were collected from 143 students via Google Forms, with semi-structured interviews, open-ended questions, and real chat data analysis involving 5% (10 participants) of the sample. The findings reveal a preference for combining text and emojis to enhance clarity, emotional expression, and engagement. Key themes include the role of emojis in conveying emotions, enhancing communication, and their contextual appropriateness. Challenges such as potential misinterpretation and the need for careful use in formal settings are discussed. Using Multimodal Discourse Analysis, this research highlights emojis' significant impact on the tone and mood of interactions, contributing to a deeper understanding of digital communication among Thai undergraduate students.

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