EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF DIFFERENT PODCASTS ON STUDENTS’ LISTENING SKILLS: A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF MOTIVATION, MEMORY, AND SELF-CONFIDENCE IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study examines the use of podcasts while learning English for students in Pakistan. Specifically, the study looks at how learning aided by podcasts impacts students’ motivation, memory, and self-confidence with respect to listening and speaking. With the increasing presence of technology in learning, podcasts have become an easily integrable authentic learning resource that gives students the opportunity to engage with real world examples of the English language, its pronunciation, vocabulary, and dialog. The study employs a qualitative methodology using a phenomenological approach in order to understand and explain students’ perceptions and experiences of learning through podcasts. The sample consisted of students enrolled in English language courses at a chosen set of universities in Pakistan, and data were obtained through semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was performed to identify important themes in relation to listening, motivation, cognitive processes, and affect. The results showed that the use of podcasts assiduously improved students’ listening, independent learning, and concentration, and increased their self-confidence with respect to communication. The study advocates for the use of podcasts in Pakistan to develop interactive, learner-centered, and technology-based language learning systems in academic environments.