2026: Proceedings of MMIT'26 International Conference
288-298
2026-06-06
Open Access

A Phenomenological Study of Uzbek Students’ Lived Experiences of Using Telegram to Communicate with Foreign Lecturers

Gerson Jr Lapid
https://doi.org/10.61587/

Received: 2026-05-30

Published: 2026-06-06

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Abstract

This phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of Uzbek undergraduate students using Telegram to communicate with foreign lecturers in a private international university in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. While mobile communication platforms are increasingly used in higher education, limited attention has been given to the subjective meanings students attach to Telegram-mediated academic communication, particularly in intercultural and multi-lingual learning contexts. Using a qualitative phenomenological design, the study examined, the experiences of eight Uzbek students who regularly communicate with foreign lecturers through Telegram. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed through phenomenological reduction, meaning-unit clustering, and thematic synthesis. The findings revealed four major themes: comfort in informality, linguistic negotiation, perceived distance, and trust-building presence. Students experienced Telegram as a flexible and emotionally accessible space that reduced anxiety, supported participation, and enabled quicker interaction with lecturers. However, the platform also exposed linguistic insecurities, uncertainty about tone and boundaries, and cultural differences in communication style. The essence of the experience lies in Telegram’s dual role as both a bridge and a boundary: it strengthens connection and academic engagement while also highlighting the limitations of mediated intercultural communication. The study suggests that lecturers and institutions should recognize Telegram not merely as a technical tool, but as a socially and emotionally meaningful communication space that requires culturally sensitive and student-centered practices.

Keywords

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About the Authors

Gerson Jr Lapid
glapidjr@gmail.com
TMC Singapore Institute in Tashkent

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A Phenomenological Study of Uzbek Students’ Lived Experiences of Using Telegram to Communicate with Foreign Lecturers. (2026). MMIT Proceedings, 288-298. https://doi.org/10.61587/

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