ENHANCING LISTENING COMPREHENSION OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE STUDENTS USING POP MUSIC ON SPOTIFY AMONG SECOND SEMESTER ENGLISH EDUCATION AT IAIN PONTIANAK

Abstract

Budi Pangestu, 2024. “Enhancing EFL Listening Comprehension with Pop Music on Spotify on the 2nd Semester Tadris English Iain Pontianak”. Thesis (S1) Tadris English Study Program (TBI). Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teachers Training (FTIK). State Institute of Islamic Studies (IAIN), Advisor I: Dr. Istiqamah MA. Advisor II: Sulaiman M. Pd. Academic Year 2023/2024 Proficiency in listening is essential for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners, underpinning effective communication and comprehensive language acquisition. A significant number of students studying EFL face challenges when it comes to developing their listening skills, which limits their overall language ability. This study investigates the incorporation of popular music from Spotify as a teaching technique to improve listening abilities among second-semester EFL students at State Institute of Islamic Studies (IAIN) Pontianak. Previous research has not fully explored the use of music streaming platforms in improving EFL listening skills, creating a gap in understanding their potential educational benefits. This study addresses this gap by investigating how integrating Spotify’s pop music into the curriculum impacts student engagement and listening comprehension. The key research questions are: (1) How does pop music integration affect EFL students' engagement in listening activities? (2) To what extent does it enhance their listening comprehension, including understanding main ideas, responding to questions, and using specific listening strategies? The study involved second-semester students from the Tadris English program at IAIN Pontianak. Utilizing a Classroom Action Research (CAR) design, the research was conducted in two cycles involving planning, acting, observing, and reflecting phases. Data were collected through pre-and post-tests, questionnaires, and observations. Results showed a substantial improvement in listening comprehension and engagement. The mean score increased from 5.1 in the pre-test to 6.5 in the final post-test, with 77% of students meeting the Minimum Mastery Criterion (KKM). Students reported greater motivation and enjoyment, highlighting pop music's efficacy in enhancing listening skills and creating an engaging learning environment.