Texting to Motivate Language Learning: WhatsApp Group Chats and Near Peer Role Modeling (NPRM)

Abstract

During the Soviet era, Kazakh was nearly extinct in urban areas of Kazakhstan. This article describes a pilot project that connected university student volunteers (near‑peer role models) with secondary school learners via WhatsApp group chats to promote authentic communication in Kazakh. Findings include increased enjoyment and motivation, and five tangible outcomes with recommendations for future implementation.