The Effectiveness of Listening to English Songs to Improve Listening Skills for Beginner of English Language Learners

Abstract

Listening is a fundamental skill in language acquisition and plays a key role in the communication process, particularly in English language learning. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of using popular English songs to improve the listening skills of beginner students. A quasi-experimental method was used with second-semester students at Ma’arif Nahdlatul Ulama University in Kebumen. The sample consisted of 20 students, divided into experimental and control groups. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests using a listening cloze test. The results of the paired samples t-test showed a significant improvement in the experimental group, with a significance value of 0.003 (p < 0.05). The average listening score in the experimental group increased from 48.5 to 73 after the treatment, while the control group showed no meaningful progress. Furthermore, students exposed to English songs demonstrated increased motivation, enjoyment, and engagement in the learning process. These findings suggest that integrating popular English songs into the classroom is an effective and enjoyable strategy to enhance listening comprehension for beginner learners.