Experiences, Challenges, and Adaptive Strategies of ESL Learners in Listening in English

Abstract

Listening is one of the most challenging skills for ESL learners. It requires active effort to understand spoken English in real time, often with different accents and fast speech. Despite its importance, listening often gets less attention in language teaching compared to speaking, reading, and writing.

This study investigates the lived experiences of ESL learners as they navigate the complexities of listening in English. It employed a qualitative research approach using transcendental phenomenology to investigate challenges and adaptive strategies of ESL learners in listening in English. The research focused on Grade 7 students at Cebuano National High School in Tupi, South Cotabato, during the school year 2024-2025. Semi-structured interview was utilized to gather insights from 10 purposively selected participants (5 male and 5 female). Data analysis was conducted through thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke’s (2006) framework, to identify patterns and themes in the students' experiences.

These difficulties often lead to misunderstandings and hinder effective comprehension during listening activities. ESL learners, particularly Grade 7 students, face several challenges in listening to English, including poor comprehension, limited vocabulary, noisy environments, peer distractions, and lack of interest. These obstacles negatively impact their focus, understanding, and overall progress in developing effective listening skills. To cope with challenges in English listening, ESL students use strategies such as active listening, maintaining concentration, note-taking, seeking clarification, and asking questions from experts like teachers. These methods help learners stay focused, understand spoken content better, and retain important information.

The study concluded that the experiences, challenges, and coping strategies of ESL learners in developing English listening skills highlight the complexity of the learning process. Recommendations include the need for supportive teaching approaches, clearer communication, and an engaging learning environment to help ESL learners improve their listening comprehension effectively.