INVESTIGATING THE ROLE OF “@AARONS ENGLISH” INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT IN DEVELOPING ENGLISH SPEAKING SKILLS

Abstract

This study discusses the influence of Instagram Reels, particularly the @Aarons.english account, in improving English-speaking abilities of the students of State Junior High School 2 Pasawahan. It aims at comprehending how social media can be utilized to enhance vocabulary, pronunciation, fluency, and confidence. Through a qualitative descriptive design, data were collected from classroom observations, interviews, documentation, and speaking tests with seven students chosen by purposive sampling, then analyzed through thematic coding and conclusion drawing. The findings show that @Aarons.english Reels improved students' speaking performance by improving vocabulary through authentic exposure, pronunciation and fluency through imitation, and confidence. Instagram Reels also supported independent learning outside the classroom. The research adds to English language teaching by showing how social media motivates and enables speaking practice and illustrating the potential of Instagram Reels especially @Aarons.english in improving Indonesian junior high school students' speaking skills.