THE ROLE OF PODCASTS IN IMPROVING ENGLISH LISTENING SKILLS
Keywords:
Podcasts, listening skills, English language learning, listening comprehension, vocabulary development, pronunciation, learner autonomy, motivation.Abstract
This study examines the role of podcasts in improving English listening skills among language learners. Podcasts have become a popular educational tool due to their accessibility, flexibility, and authentic content. They provide learners with opportunities to practice listening outside the classroom and expose them to real-life language use. The study highlights the benefits of podcasts in developing listening comprehension, expanding vocabulary, improving pronunciation, and increasing learner motivation. It also discusses the challenges learners may face, such as fast speech, unfamiliar vocabulary, and accent variation. The findings suggest that podcasts can serve as an effective supplement to traditional language learning methods and contribute significantly to the development of English listening skills.