DEVELOPING LISTENING SKILLS THROUGH AUTHENTIC MATERIALS

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of authentic materials in developing listening skills among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. Listening is a critical component of language acquisition, yet traditional teaching resources often fail to reflect real-life communication. To address this gap, the research employed a quasi-experimental design involving intermediate-level students divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental group was exposed to authentic audio-visual materials such as podcasts, interviews, and videos, while the control group used conventional textbook-based resources. Data were collected through pre-tests, post-tests, questionnaires, and classroom observations. The results indicate that students who engaged with authentic materials demonstrated significant improvement in listening comprehension, as well as higher motivation and engagement levels. The findings suggest that authentic input enhances learners’ ability to understand natural speech, including various accents and discourse patterns. The study concludes that integrating authentic materials into EFL classrooms is an effective strategy for improving listening skills and preparing learners for real-world communication.