EXPLORING FACTORS AFFECTING UNDERGRADUATE EFL STUDENTS' LISTENING COMPREHENSION AT A UNIVERSITY IN SOUTHERN VIETNAM

In modern society, the increasing popularity and development of English learning reflect its importance for both acquiring knowledge and interpersonal communication. Listening is an essential skill in both aspects. The exposure to different languages is likely to lead to difficulties in listening comprehension, so it is necessary for students to practice and improve their listening skills constantly during the learning process. This study aims to identify internal and external factors influencing students' listening comprehension skills and explore recommendations suggested by the participants to overcome challenges. A mixed-methods approach was employed. Data were collected from 60 English-major students through a questionnaire and a focus-group interview and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results indicate that environmental noise, rapid speech rate, vocabulary limitations, and anxiety from listening are the main barriers to students' understanding. To address these issues, attendees recommended a blend of self-directed practices and educational assistance. Students are particularly urged to interact with English-language media, such as newspapers and films, and practice dictation to enhance their vocabulary and listening skills. Simultaneously, the participants emphasized the importance of cultivating a more encouraging classroom environment and incorporating pre-listening tasks, like introducing essential vocabulary beforehand. Moreover, enhancing the university's technical infrastructure is crucial for guaranteeing audio quality. These insights provide practical implications for enhancing teaching and learning practices towards listening comprehension in comparable EFL environments.