CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES IN TEACHING LISTENING SKILLS
Abstract
This article explores the challenges involved in teaching listening comprehension within language education, emphasizing that it is often less studied than other language skills. Conventional approaches, which focus on passive listening and simple comprehension exercises, do not reflect the real-time, interactive nature of spoken language. Learners frequently struggle with cognitive overload, limited vocabulary, over-reliance on translation, absence of contextual cues, difficulties with pronunciation and intonation, and variations in motivation and attention. The study recommends a process-focused approach, including pre-, during-, and post-listening activities, explicit strategy instruction, guided exposure to authentic materials, repeated practice, and collaborative exercises. Promoting learner independence, leveraging technology, and adapting tasks to learners’ proficiency, age, and interests are highlighted as key to developing effective, real-world listening skills and sustained confidence.