EXPLORING INDONESIAN EFL STUDENTS’ RESPONSES IN LEARNING ENGLISH SPEAKING THROUGH SIMMY FALLON’S LATE-NIGHT SHOW IN AN ONLINE COURSE

Abstract

This study investigates the integration of YouTube talk shows, specifically The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, as a supplementary tool to enhance English speaking fluency among Indonesian EFL learners in an online course setting. Using a qualitative narrative inquiry design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with three students who regularly engage in online English course and utilize selected talk show clips as part of their learning process. The findings, analyzed through thematic narrative analysis, reveal that students experienced significant improvements in their speaking confidence, fluency, and ability to engage in natural, real-life conversations. Key contributing factors included the informal, humorous tone of the talk show, frequent exposure to spontaneous spoken English, and course-guided activities such as role-plays, summarization, and discussion. The students also reported that the content was more engaging and effective than traditional textbook-based materials, despite challenges such as fast-paced speech and unfamiliar idiomatic expressions. The study concludes that the integration of authentic media like YouTube talk shows into online course offers a dynamic and practical approach to improving EFL speaking skills in a digital learning environment.