THE ROLE OF YOUTUBE IN SELF-DIRECTED EFL SPEAKING SKILL DEVELOPMENT

Didit Haryadi, Falah Dyandra Krisna

Abstract


This study explores how two male Indonesian workers in Japan perceive YouTube as a self-directed learning tool for improving their English-speaking skills. Through a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with these participants who used YouTube to enhance their pronunciation, vocabulary, and fluency. Findings reveal that YouTube facilitates autonomous language learning, allowing learners to refine pronunciation through adaptive listening and imitation, expand vocabulary via contextual exposure, and enhance fluency by observing authentic speech patterns. While YouTube offers flexibility and accessibility, its effectiveness is limited by the lack of interactive communication in workplace settings. This study contributes to the growing discourse on informal digital learning, recommending that EFL learners integrate interactive practices alongside YouTube-based learning. Future research should explore strategies to bridge online exposure with real-world language use.

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.17977/um046v8i22024p56-64

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