Integrating Digital Music Platform in EFL Instruction: Changes on Listening Comprehension and Vocabulary Acquisition
Roberto Tolozano-Benites, Elena Tolozano-Benites, Alejandro Ponce-MariscalDeveloping listening comprehension and acquiring vocabulary in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) remains a challenge in educational settings characterized by traditional teaching methods and limited opportunities for language exposure. This study analyzed the impact of integrating music-based digital platforms as a pedagogical strategy to enhance these linguistic skills among secondary school students. The research employed a mixed-methods approach with a single-group pre-experimental design (pre-test and post-test), utilizing both quantitative and qualitative instruments to assess student progress before and after the intervention. Diagnostic (pre-test) and final (post-test) assessments, along with surveys and observations, were used to measure changes in listening comprehension, vocabulary usage, and motivation for language learning. The intervention involved implementing structured activities via a digital platform that utilizes songs and interactive exercises based on song lyrics. The results demonstrated a substantial improvement in students' ability to comprehend auditory information, recognize vocabulary in context, and engage in active listening activities. Additionally, an increase in motivation and interest in learning English was observed, attributed to the dynamic and interactive nature of the digital tools employed. These findings suggest that using music-based digital platforms is an effective strategy for boosting key linguistic skills, thereby fostering more meaningful, autonomous, and contextualized learning in EFL environments.