Improving B1 level listening comprehension skills in economically disadvantaged university students through radio and podcasts

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of radio and podcasts as educational tools for enhancing listening skills in English and Portuguese. It focuses on five 45–55-minute programs covering cultural topics such as cross-cultural misconceptions, music, and expert interviews, aimed at B1 foreign language students. Employing a qualitative approach with mixed data collection methods, the research gathered both numerical and experiential insights from twenty-five participating students. Five workshops, featuring questions related to each program, were conducted to assess listening comprehension. Analysis revealed that integrating creative and culturally engaging content in radio and podcast formats significantly motivates students and promotes autonomous learning. Survey conducted via Google Forms indicated that many participants scored 80% in their assessments. These findings highlight the importance of aligning educational materials with students’ interests and needs. Consequently, when teachers incorporate culturally rich and relevant content into listening activities, students demonstrate greater enthusiasm and enhanced comprehension. To successfully implement this methodology, it is recommended that teachers consider students’ interests beforehand and ensure they feel involved in the process throughout.