ESTD PERPUSTAKAAN UNTAD
ESTD PERPUSTAKAAN UNTAD
| JudulPENGGUNAAN IDLE OLEH MAHASISWA EFL TINGKAT UNIVERSITAS UNTUK MENINGKATKAN PRESTASI AKADEMIK MAHASISWA |
| Nama: IIN FARADINA |
| Tahun: 2025 |
| Abstrak This study explores the use of Informal Digital Learning of English (IDLE) by university-level EFL learners and its contribution to students’ academic achievement. The method of this study is qualitative with a case study approach. The research was conducted at Tadulako University and involved participants from the English Education Study Program. Initially, open-ended questionnaires were distributed to 14 students to explore their engagement with IDLE. From these, only 8 participants voluntarily agreed to take part in follow-up interviews, forming the core sample for in-depth data collection. The study aimed to answer two main questions: (1) How do EFL learners engage in IDLE activities? and (2) How can these activities improve their academic performance? Data were collected through open-ended questionnaires and structured interviews, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that Tadulako University students engage in IDLE through self-directed, social-collaborative learning and interest-based activities across multiple digital platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Duolingo, HelloTalk, MAUM, WhatsApp, and Instagram. These platforms are not only used for entertainment but also for developing core language skills, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Furthermore, the findings indicate that learners adopt various strategies such as taking notes, mimicking native accents, pausing videos to look up new vocabulary, and applying learned expressions during class discussions. These habits enhance students’ academic performance, particularly in areas like vocabulary acquisition, fluency in presentations, comprehension in listening tests, and confidence in classroom interaction and writing tasks. The implications suggest that IDLE is not merely supplementary but essential in modern language learning and should be more intentionally integrated into formal education settings. By recognizing and supporting students' informal learning practices, educators can foster more effective, enjoyable, and learner-centered English language development. Keywords: Informal Digital Learning of English (IDLE), EFL learners, academic achievement, digital platforms |