The Effect of Using the Hello English Application on Tenth-Grade Students’ Speaking Ability

Abstract

The rapid integration of mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) has encouraged educators to utilize digital applications as alternative media to enhance students’ speaking proficiency. This study investigates the effect of using the Hello English application on the speaking ability of tenth-grade students at SMA Negeri 3 Kutacane in the 2024/2025 academic year. A quantitative research approach was employed using a one-group pretest–posttest experimental design to measure students’ speaking performance before and after the treatment. The population consisted of 76 tenth-grade students, from which 27 students were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured speaking tests administered during the pre-test and post-test phases. The assessment focused on fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary, and comprehensibility. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied to examine changes in students’ speaking ability following the implementation of the application. The findings revealed a significant improvement in students’ speaking performance, with the mean score increasing from 44.81 in the pre-test to 77.96 in the post-test. Furthermore, 84% of the students exceeded the Minimum Mastery Criterion (KKM) score of 70. Improvements were also reflected in the mode and median scores, indicating overall performance enhancement. These results suggest that the Hello English application is an effective instructional medium for improving students’ speaking skills by providing interactive, learner-centered, and self-paced learning experiences. Therefore, integrating the Hello English application into senior high school English instruction is recommended to support speaking skill development in the digital era.