Authentic audio materials in ESP

Abstract

A contemporary approach to acquiring good listening skills in a foreign language has recently emerged due to audio publishing online. It is known as ‘podcasting’ and has become common because it offers language learners extra listening practice both inside and outside of English classes. Moreover, podcasting as online communication technology is a new way to inspire learning: it provides an exciting way for students and educators to explore and discover educational content. However, applicability of podcasting to teaching English needs researching. This paper describes research into learners’ perceptions of online listening to podcasts, self-evaluation of their own performance in individual listening practice and reflections on ways of improving listening skills. The findings give insights into a practice of developing listening competence. Some implications of research are described including a recommendation for a so called ‘blended learning’, i.e. combination of multiple approaches to learning by harmonizing online listening with classroom audition activities in learning English for Specific Purposes.