The effect of vodcasting tasks on EFL listening comprehension progress in an online program

Abstract

Video podcasting technology or vodcasting is a burgeoning technological advancement which can make computer assisted language learning more convenient. Video technology is extensively used in traditional L2 classrooms. Yet, video podcasting together with the application of meaningful, logical, reasonable, and challenging tasks is rarely used in distance language learning programs. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of video podcasting tasks on listening comprehension progress of Iranian intermediate learners. For this aim, a quasi-experimental design was used to examine the efficacy of these tasks on a group of 120 English learners. The treatment took twelve weeks and it comprised of working on online vodcasting tasks from five different genres. Paired samples t-test was utilized to assess the amount of listening achievement and the test-taking performance by comparing the results of the pre-test and the post-test. The results demonstrated a statistically significant increase in listening comprehension scores from pre-test to post-test. The magnitude of the difference was calculated by the Eta squared statistic which indicated a large effect size. It was concluded that the superior performance of the learners was contributed to the association of vodcastsing tasks. In addition, Pearson's Product-Moment Correlation was used which revealed a significant positive relationship between participants' engagement rate with Vodcasting Tasks and their test performance.