Integrating Podcasts to Enhance Oral Communication Skills Among Junior High School Learners in SDO Batangas City

Abstract

This study, titled “Integrating Podcasts to Enhance Oral Communication Skills among Junior High School Learners in SDO Batangas City,” aimed to determine the extent of teachers’ integration of podcasts in teaching oral communication and its relationship to learners’ listening and speaking skills. It also sought to identify the challenges encountered by teachers and to propose enhancement activities that could strengthen podcast-based instruction.

A mixed-method research design was employed to ensure a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon. Quantitative data were gathered using a researcher-made questionnaire administered to 101 junior high school English teachers, while qualitative insights were obtained through interviews that captured teachers’ challenges, experiences, and perspectives on podcast integration.

Findings revealed that teachers generally demonstrated a high degree of podcast integration, particularly in engaging and motivating learners to participate in oral communication tasks. Learners’ speaking skills were rated as highly manifested, while their listening skills were moderately manifested. Statistical analysis indicated a significant relationship between podcast integration and speaking skills but no significant relationship with listening skills, suggesting that while podcasts effectively develop verbal fluency and confidence, additional strategies may be needed to enhance listening comprehension.

Teachers also identified several challenges, including limited access to technology, a lack of training, and difficulty in selecting appropriate podcast materials. Despite these, they recognized podcasts as valuable tools for improving pronunciation, vocabulary, and student engagement.

The study concludes that consistent, well-planned, and institutionally supported podcast integration can meaningfully enhance oral communication instruction. It recommends capacity building programs, well-organized podcast resources, and technological support systems to sustain effective podcast-based teaching.