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International Journal of New Developments in Education, 2024, 6(9); doi: 10.25236/IJNDE.2024.060913.

An Analysis of Listening Comprehension Difficulties among Korean EFL Learners---A Case Study

Author(s)

Yumeng Sun

Corresponding Author:
Yumeng Sun
Affiliation(s)

English Language and Literature, Hoseo University, Cheonan, Korea

Abstract

This study investigates the difficulties encountered by Korean EFL learners with different proficiency levels in listening comprehension. It identifies significant barriers faced by low-proficiency students, particularly in the perception stage with fast speech rates, accent variations, as well as speech ambiguity. While all the participants struggle with the parsing stage, low-proficiency students exhibit more pronounced issues in information processing and memory. High-proficiency students face fewer challenges in perception but still have difficulties at the parsing stage. The findings highlight the parsing stage as the most challenging process for Korean EFL learners. Based on the findings of the research, some implications are made in the conclusion. Recommendations include enhanced perception stage training, tailored listening activities, and targeted parsing stage practice. Following the current research, a future study examining additional influencing factors, and exploring technology-assisted and multimodal teaching methods aimed at helping Korean EFL learners overcome difficulties in the listening process awaits.

Keywords

listening comprehension difficulties, Korean EFL learners, listening skills

Cite This Paper

Yumeng Sun. An Analysis of Listening Comprehension Difficulties among Korean EFL Learners---A Case Study. International Journal of New Developments in Education (2024), Vol. 6, Issue 9: 88-95. https://doi.org/10.25236/IJNDE.2024.060913.

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