THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL FRIENDS IN STRENGTHENING ENGLISH SPEAKING SKILLS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Khoiriyyah, Siti Salmaa (2026) THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL FRIENDS IN STRENGTHENING ENGLISH SPEAKING SKILLS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS. Diploma thesis, Universitas Islam Kalimantan MAB.

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Abstract

Speaking is one of the most important skills in English language learning. Despite years of formal instruction, many university students still struggle with speaking fluently and confidently. However, informal interactions with international friends have emerged as a meaningful alternative learning environment. This research aimed to explore how communication with international friends helps strengthen English-speaking skills among university students. This study employed a qualitative phenomenological approach. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five university students from various campuses who frequently interacted with international friends using English on digital platforms such as Discord, WhatsApp, and online games. The data were analyzed using Miles and Huberman’s interactive model, which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing/verification. The findings indicated that international friendships provided real-life speaking practice, increased students’ motivation, helped reduce speaking anxiety, and improved their pronunciation, vocabulary, and fluency. Furthermore, participants reported feeling more confident in using English and more engaged in their language learning journey. This study highlights the potential of informal digital communication with international friends as a valuable supplement to formal English education. Keywords: English-speaking skills, international friends, digital communication, university students, informal learning

Item Type:	Thesis (Diploma)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Keywords: English-speaking skills, international friends, digital communication, university students, informal learning
Subjects:	L Education > L Education (General)
Depositing User:	Siti Salmaa Khoiriyyah
Date Deposited:	14 Apr 2026 06:40
Last Modified:	14 Apr 2026 06:40
URI:	http://eprints.uniska-bjm.ac.id/id/eprint/34580

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