The use of authentic material through WhatsApp in teaching listening skills in EFL out-of-classroom settings

Abstract

Abstract: The study, titled Using Authentic Material via WhatsApp to Teach EFL Listening Skills Outside the Classroom, aimed to determine the impact of using authentic material delivered via WhatsApp to improve EFL learners listening skills outside the classroom. This study was conducted in a public school in Loja, Ecuador, involving 24 second-year high school (BGU) students and their English teacher. The research employed a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Techniques such as observations, surveys, and interviews were used. Various instruments, including observation sheets and questionnaires, facilitated data collection. The study concluded that WhatsApp s features and benefits allow students to easily access a wide variety of authentic materials, including videos, podcasts, audios, and other resources. The flexibility of accessing these materials anytime, anywhere is a significant advantage.