AUTHOR=Yassin Baderaddin 

TITLE=Enhancing English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learning in Saudi Arabia: the academic contribution of YouTube in EFL learning and cultural awareness

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Education

VOLUME=Volume 9 - 2024

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/education/articles/10.3389/feduc.2024.1451504

DOI=10.3389/feduc.2024.1451504

ISSN=2504-284X

ABSTRACT=The incorporation of technology in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classroom has drastically transformed conventional learning models by offering innovative ways to boost students' engagement and improve learning outcomes. This study investigates the impact of using YouTube as an educational tool to enhance EFL instruction in Saudi Arabia. A total of 200 EFL students were divided into two groups: An experimental group which used You Tube as a source of learning and another group which used normal curriculum. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from a paired-sample t-test with qualitative feedback from students. The results for paired-sample t-test computations revealed a statistically significant difference (p = 0. 003) across the proficiency level indicating improvement in students' speaking and listening skills at higher proficiency levels. Of the qualitative answers, motivational and participation enhancement were overemphasized. The research points that the integration of YouTube in EFL classrooms can lead to a remarkable increase in language learning especially in the learning area of listening and speaking abilities among the students. These results offer practical implications for educators seeking to integrate multimedia tools into their teaching strategies to promote more interactive and effective learning experiences. The adoption of technology in English as foreign language (EFL) classrooms has shifted conventional learning models significantly by presenting effective means of facilitating students' interest and better results. This study aims to discover how the YouTube platform can enhance EFL education in Saudi Arabia. For this study, 200 EFL students in two equal groups (experimental and control groups) were involved. The results for paired-sample t-test computations revealed a statistically significant difference (p = 0. 003) across the proficiency level indicating improvement in students' speaking and listening skills at higher proficiency levels. The positive results of using YouTube videos are proven to be beneficial to EFL learners when implemented in classrooms.