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

Abstract

Abstract: This research explores the use of WhatsApp as a tool to improve listening skills in English as a foreign language (EFL) learners through authentic materials. The study aims to evaluate how the integration of authentic content shared through WhatsApp affects students' ability to understand spoken English outside of a traditional classroom setting. Conducted in a public secondary school with a sample of 18 EFL learners, the research employed both qualitative and quantitative methods, including surveys, interviews, and activity observations. The analysis focused on students' perceptions of WhatsApp as a tool to improve their listening skills and their motivation to engage with English outside of class time. The findings indicate that most students felt more confident in their ability to understand spoken English and appreciated the flexibility to access materials at their convenience. However, some students struggled with certain aspects of the content, suggesting the need for more personalized resources. The study concludes that WhatsApp is an effective complementary tool for improving listening skills and fostering independent learning.