YouTube as a Digital Learning Platform to Enhance Speaking Skills: A Study on the Perceptions and Challenges among Pre-University Students

This qualitative study explores pre-university students’ perceptions and challenges in using YouTube to develop English speaking skills. Using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as a theoretical framework, semi structured interviews were conducted with seven pre-university students and analysed thematically to understand their perception and challenges of using YouTube to enhance speaking skills. Findings reveal that YouTube positively enhances the pre-university students speaking skills development, as well as highlighting the challenges related to accent comprehension, distractions and the need for teacher guidance. The study highlights the need for integrating teacher facilitation and developing curated YouTube content to maximize its educational potential. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of digital learning tools in language acquisition and suggest directions for future research and pedagogical practice.