EFL Listening Comprehension: Learners’ Challenges and Teachers’ Strategies: A Discriptive Study of Al-Ruhaibat Preparatory Schools

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the challenges encountered by Libyan preparatory school students toward listening comprehension. It also highlights the most effective strategies that help to overcome these challenges. The study used a mixed method research design. The data was collected using a questionnaire and interviews. The questionnaire was given to a sample of fifty- three students at preparatory school stage, whereas the interview was held with nine English language teachers. The results revealed that the majority of learners experience challenges in listening comprehension, including speed of the speech, accent of speakers, limited vocabulary, lack of background knowledge of the topic, anxiety and lack of confidence. As a result, these challenges make it difficult to comprehend the spoken discourse in English. Some strategies employed by teachers in classrooms presented significant effectiveness in enhancing learners’ listening skills and strengthening their ability to overcome challenges. Finally, a number of significant recommendations and suggestions are provided in this paper.