Journal of Academic Research for Humanities (JARH) is a double-blind, peer-reviewed, Open Free Access, online Multidisciplinary Research Journal
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Vol. 5 No. 1 (2025)
The International "Journal of Academic Research for Humanities"

Research Articles

Effectiveness of WhatsApp as a tool to enhance English-speaking skills of university students

Published 30-03-2025

  • Zohaib
    • ,
  • Sehar Naveed
    • ,
  • Syed Hyder Raza Shah

Zohaib
Student, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sanghar Campus, Sindh, Pakistan.

Sehar Naveed
Lecturer, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sanghar Campus, Sindh, Pakistan.

Syed Hyder Raza Shah
Lecturer, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sanghar Campus, Sindh, Pakistan

Abstract

The primary purpose of this research is to explore the effectiveness of WhatsApp as a tool to enhance the English-speaking skills of university students, addressing the need for additional language practice beyond limited in-class opportunities. Since there is limited time available in class to practice speaking English, students often find it difficult to become proficient in oral communication. Students especially face this problem in settings where English is not the primary language. Students may not have enough opportunity to participate, and meaningful spoken instruction in traditional classroom settings could leave a gap in their capacity to communicate effectively in English. To get reliable outcomes and draw valid conclusions from the study, the quantitative research approach is employed throughout the data collection and analysis. This study’s results demonstrate that WhatsApp enhances students’ fluency, which has been reflected in the pre- and posttest analyses showing a notable increase in vocabulary, lexical competence and grammar among participants. These findings affirm that WhatsApp’s informal and interactive setting provides students with continuous exposure to new vocabulary, supporting vocabulary development, grammar and fluency beyond the classroom. This study recommends that English language curriculum designers integrate WhatsApp and similar mobile assistant tools into their programs to extend language learning beyond the classroom. Future research should investigate the effectiveness of WhatsApp-based language learning activities across different skill levels and age groups. Such studies could provide insights into the specific benefits of mobile learning tools for diverse learner profiles.

Keywords

WhatsApp, Language learning, English, Speaking Skills, University Students.

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