THE UTILIZATION OF PODCAST IN IMPROVING THE LISTENING SKILLS AMONG FRESHMEN ENGLISH MAJOR

Abstract

This study explores the impact of podcasts on students' listening comprehension and their perceptions of using podcasts during listening classes. Using a descriptive qualitative research design, it examines how the medium’s convenience and accessibility support knowledge acquisition in academic settings. Findings suggest that podcasts significantly enhance students' ability to understand spoken information, highlighting their effectiveness as an educational tool in developing listening skills. This quasi-experimental study investigates the effectiveness of podcast use in enhancing the listening skills of freshman English majors at Bestlink College of the Philippines. Pre-tests were conducted before the intervention, followed by podcast-based instruction aligned with the same competencies. Post-tests were administered to assess any improvements. By comparing pre- and post-test results, the study measured the impact of podcast utilization on students' listening performance, demonstrating podcasts' potential as a valuable tool in auditory and language learning. The study found that freshman BSED English majors at Bestlink College of the Philippines consider themselves technologically adept in using podcasts to enhance listening and speaking skills. Students utilized tools such as mobile phones, headsets, and speakers to understand podcast content, improve pronunciation, and learn phonological patterns. However, their speaking skills were affected by factors like emotional distractions, environmental noise, and physical distance from the speaker. Despite these challenges, podcasts were recognized as effective in providing pronunciation models and strategies to improve overall listening and communication skills. The study emphasizes the educational value of podcasts, particularly via platforms like Spotify, among freshman BSED English majors. Podcasts provide factual, engaging content that remains accessible and unchanged after release, making them a reliable resource. They facilitate learning by enhancing auditory comprehension and offering innovative ways to introduce new topics. Additionally, podcast creation by students encourages knowledge expression, making it an effective tool for active learning and student engagement in academic settings.