Improving English Speaking through Media in the Digital Age

Abstract

The study was conducted to identify students' difficulties in speaking English and recommend strategies to cope with these difficulties so that their ability to speak English can be improved. The era of globalization requires students to be able to master English to keep up with current developments. Entering the era of free markets requires students to prepare competent resources, especially in the field of communication. Because English is a global means of communication, it makes English a language to be actively mastered, both written and verbal. The research method used is qualitative, with the data collection method using interviews and documentation. The participants in this study were 15 people. The result of this study is that the problems experienced by students in learning to speak English among them are less practice, less vocabulary, less accurate pronunciation, less training, not supportive environment, as well as less customization. To improve English speaking skills, it is necessary to reduce these difficulties by 1) memorizing vocabulary; 2) listening to English words and sentences; 3) multiplying speech and speaking exercises using English; 4) multiplying practice; 5) finding friends who have an interest in learning to speak English; and 6) getting used to speaking English consistently.