Penerapan Aplikasi TikTok dalam Meningkatkan Keterampilan Berbicara Siswa di SMP Negeri 3 Barru = APPLYING TIKTOK APPLICATION TO IMPROVE SPEAKING SKILL AT SMP NEGERI 3 BARRU

This study investigates the effectiveness of using the TikTok application to improve speaking skills among second-grade students at SMP Negeri 3 Barru. Employing a mixed-methods design with a one-group pretest-posttest experimental approach, the research integrates both quantitative and qualitative data. The participants were 28 students from class 8.2, who underwent a series of five speaking sessions using TikTok application as the main instructional tool. The findings revealed a significant improvement in students' speaking skill. The mean score increased from 7.43 in the pre-test to 10.11 in the post-test, supported by a large effect size (Cohen’s d = 2.09). Qualitative results from open-ended interviews that students showed higher confidence, enhanced fluency, better pronunciation, and strong engagement during the speaking tasks. The students expressed overall positive perceptions toward the use of TikTok, viewing it as enjoyable, relevant, and motivating for practicing English. This research supports the integration of digital platforms like TikTok in English language teaching to foster speaking skills. It also highlights the importance of adopting engaging and familiar media to reduce anxiety and improve student participation.

Keyword : TikTok, speaking skills, digital media, EFL students, language learning.