A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF YOUTUBE USAGE IN ENHANCING ENGLISH LISTENING SKILLS OF GRADE X STUDENTS

Abstract

This study aims to qualitatively analyze the use of YouTube as a medium to enhance English listening skills of Grade X students at SMAN 18 Palembang. The research employed a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, and documentation. The findings indicate that the implementation of YouTube media can increase students’ seriousness, participation, enthusiasm, and confidence in learning, while simultaneously reducing negative behaviors during the learning process. Observation data showed an increase in seriousness from 66% to 93%, participation from 60% to 90%, enthusiasm from 50% to 87%, courage from 40% to 80%, and a decrease in negative behaviors from 30% to 10%. Qualitative analysis revealed that students who actively utilized YouTube as a learning medium were able to grasp vocabulary, understand conversations, and review material independently, thereby significantly improving their English listening skills. The study concludes that YouTube is an effective tool for English learning, offering an engaging, interactive, and accessible platform that enables independent learning and enhances students’ listening abilities.