The Effects of TikTok Application on the Improvement of EFL Students’ English-Speaking Skills

Abstract

Technology development and the COVID-19 pandemic altered teaching and learning processes. TikTok, a social media platform that integrates short videos, became a medium of instruction to help students master communication skills, in particular listening and speaking skills. This study, using mixed-methods research, investigated the effects of using the TikTok application on EFL students’ speaking skills and the students’ perceptions toward the use of the TikTok application to improve their speaking skills. Speaking tests and questionnaires were administered to 60 students enrolled in a public speaking class. Additionally, 13 students volunteered to take part in semi-structured interviews. The results showed that TikTok was effective in improving EFL students’ English-speaking skills. Moreover, students had positive perceptions towards the TikTok application. Most students agreed that utilizing TikTok is enjoyable and promotes creativity, and provides new opportunities to learn English. TikTok should be integrated into language learning contexts to make the classroom environment more engaging and promote students’ language proficiency.