INCORPORATING OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN DISTANCE LEARNING: A CASE STUDY ON HOW TIKTOK IMPROVE SPEAKING SKILL AMONG ESP STUDENTS

Abstract

This research is motivated by the importance of using technology in the teaching and learning process during the pandemic of Covid-19. The objective of the research is to see the opportunity of a learning platform such as Tik Tok Application to improve ESP (English for Specific) students’ speaking skills. The participants (n=35) were given a speaking assignment with the theme 1 presentation in English, and theme 2 is about describing how to prevent the Covid-19 pandemic. The participants were assessed using pre-post tests and also questionnaire. The method of research used is a descriptive qualitative method using classroom action research techniques. The results captured that using the Tik Tok application as a medium for developing ESP students’ speaking skills in online learning could increase students’ confidence in speaking English since they can express themselves freely on Tik Tok. Furthermore, participants actively engaged in using Tik Tok for speaking activities and understood the content of all the basic English skills. It can be proof by the result of pre and post-test in which there are significant improvements in ESP students’ speaking skills from pre-test session to post-test. In conclusion, featuring social media, especially the Tik Tok application in distance learning could develop ESP students’ speaking skills, because it provides fun and meaningful online learning for students’ English Specific Purposes.