The Use of Educational YouTube Channels by EFL Learners to Boost their English Proficiency.

Abstract

YouTube has inserted changes in the educational domain and how both educators and learners teach and learn English as a foreign language. Mastering grammar, vocabulary, and language skills is considered the hardest task in any foreign language learning because they are regarded as a challenge for learners. The main aim of this research is to explore the effectiveness of using YouTube educational channels on EFL learners' English proficiency. The method used in this research is descriptive. To meet our aim, a case study was conducted at Mouhamed Seddik Ben Yahia High School in Chelghoum Elaid, Mila, in Algeria. Fifty first-year EFL learners and six English teachers were selected randomly as the sample that participated in the data collection process. Two research instruments were used to collect the data: a questionnaire that was ddressed to the learners and an interview that was conducted with the teachers. After the analysis of the data, the findings revealed that most teachers use YouTube videos as a helpful tool to assist them in their teaching. Furthermore, the learners believed that the use of YouTube helped them a lot in boosting their proficiency level in English. Overall, the results of the study revealed that both teachers and learners support the use of YouTube inside and outside the classroom. All of them recognized the importance of using educational YouTube channels in the teaching and learning process. A number of limitations and recommendations were volunteered at the end of the study.