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Abstract
This study investigated the effectiveness of audio-visual materials in enhancing listening comprehension skills among young Iranian EFL learners. It further explored their perceptions towards using such materials for this specific skill development. To assess this, 65 EFL learners were first evaluated using the Oxford Placement Test to ensure similar proficiency levels (pre-intermediate). From this pool, 50 participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental or control group. The experimental group practiced listening exercises with short audio-video clips, while the control group used textbook exercises. Additionally, semi-structured interviews explored learner attitudes towards audio-visual materials. The results were promising. The experimental group demonstrated significant improvement in listening comprehension compared to the control group. Interviews further revealed a strong preference for audio-video clips due to their engaging nature and exposure to authentic English. Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to encounter natural speech flow, diverse accents, and typical speech patterns. Furthermore, video clips were perceived as fostering cultural immersion and understanding, thereby cultivating an appreciation for different cultures. The extensive range of available clips was recognized as enabling differentiation and personalization, catering to the learners' varied learning styles and interests. This study reinforces the role of authentic language exposure in listening comprehension.