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

Abstract

Abstract: This research analyzes the impact of using authentic materials via WhatsApp on teaching listening skills in English as a foreign language (EFL) in an out-of-classroom setting. It also explores students' perceptions and the benefits of its implementation among second-year high school students at a public school in Babahoyo. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining qualitative and quantitative methods to collect data from a population of 20 students. The instruments included perception surveys, six observation sheets, and an interview with the students' English teacher. The results suggest that the use of authentic materials via WhatsApp has been beneficial in teaching listening skills. The advantages of the platform support student learning, especially because the content was largely engaging and relevant. Students' ability to respond to interventions demonstrated high levels of comprehension and engagement. Consequently, students' positive response to authentic material indicates greater attention to the questions posed, highlighting its effectiveness in improving learning outcomes in EFL listening skills. The research concludes that WhatsApp, when used with engaging content, improves students' listening skills and learning experience.