Investigating the Role of Podcasts in Improving the Speaking Skill: EFL Students' Attitudes

Abstract

Podcasts have emerged as valuable tools for education, offering a diverse range of content accessible to learners worldwide. In the realm of language learning, particularly for English as foreign language students, podcasts present an engaging platform for enhancing various language skills. Among these skills is the speaking skill, which is a crucial aspect of language learning, yet it often poses challenges for learners. In this regard, this study delves into investigating the students’ attitudes toward the role of podcasts in improving English as foreign language students' speaking skill.The basic hypothesis adopted in this study sets out that students have positive attitudes towards using podcasts in improving their speaking skill. To test this hypothesis, a quantitative descriptive method has been used through administering a questionnaire to 90 first-year Master students at the Department of English Language, 8 Mai 1945 University-Guelma. After gathering and analyzing data from students’ questionnaire responses, the findings indicate that students are not only aware of English podcasts but also hold positive attitudes towards their use in improving their speaking skill.