Abstract:

Current researches developed into the use of ICT into language teaching and learning dwell with some C.A.L.L. (Computer Assisted Language Learning) studies that point out different ways to enhance ESL/EFL students learning processes while technology enters the classroom through PC’s, tablets and smartphones. English language acquisition has been magnified by the potentiality of computing and this study focuses on the use of videopodcasts as a tool for English Listening skill improvement. Videopodcasts are video files streamed through the World Wide Web where students have the possibility of listening to a native speaker while watching his/her face on a video stream. Mr. Randall Davies and his website (www.esl-lab.com/videoclips.htm) is one of the main basis of this study and based on Krashen (1981) language acquisition theory of i+1, Vygostky’s (2002) knowledge of Proximal Development Zone and Thorne and Payne (2005) podcasts use theory, among others, we are investigating how the continuous use of videopodcasts by 32 Brazilian students has improved their listening abilities, language comprehension and fluency. We deeply investigated 12 language course students (having private classes) and 20 university students (majoring in Foreign Languages) and established a comparative study to point out positive and negative findings from the use of videopodcasts in learning approaches, language acquisition and developed fluency on these pupils when provided with samples of real-life speech and authentic realia to their language studies.

Keywords:

C.A.L.L., English learning, videopodcasts, listening skills.