A Study on the Perception of Self-directed English Learning by Korean University Students Using YouTube

Abstract

Objectives This study explored the experiences and perceptions of learners who use YouTube outside the classroom for self-directed English learning for Korean EFL university students. Methods We conducted a total of 155 Korean college students with an online survey from the first semester of 2021 to the first semester of 2022, and the questionnaire consisted of open-ended and closed-ended questions based on grounded theory. Results The findings indicated that 92.2% of Korean college students were willing to use YouTube videos for learning English. Participants wanted to improve their listening and speaking skills rather than their reading and writing skills through YouTube, and 64.5% spent less than 10 minutes a day learning English. The reasons why participants are satisfied with English learning through YouTube were found to be in three categories: “space for personal learning,” “social media efficiency,” and “indirect experiences.” On the other hand, they had difficulty in continuing to learn and showed a tendency not to regard it as a systematic learning material. Conclusions YouTube can be beneficial for learners’ self-directed English learning in that it includes various and practical materials anytime, anywhere, and free. To maximize this, learners should recognize that natural exposure to a second language environment through YouTube has a significant effect on improving English skills. In addition, learners must set clear goals and initiatives for a certain period to continue self-directed English learning.