The Impact of Podcast-based Input on Enhancing Critical Listening Skills among Iraqi EFL Learners

This study investigated the impact of podcast-based input on enhancing critical listening skills among intermediate-level Iraqi EFL learners. Employing a mixed-methods quasi-experimental design, ۶۰ participants were divided into experimental (n = ۳۰) and control groups (n = ۳۰). The experimental group received an eight-week podcast-mediated intervention using authentic materials from BBC Learning English and TED Talks, integrated with scaffolding, critical analysis tasks. The control group received regular textbook-based listening instruction. Data were collected through the critical listening test. Quantitative results revealed significant improvements in critical listening in the experimental group, with large effect sizes. The ANCOVA confirmed the superiority of podcast-based instruction over regular instruction. The study suggests that podcast-based instruction can transform listening pedagogy from a product-oriented approach to a process-oriented approach, fostering higher-order cognitive awareness and enriched listening development in EFL contexts of Iraq.

کلیدواژه ها:

Critical listening skills ، Iraqi EFL learners ، Podcast-based input