Learning English Beyond the Classroom: Learners’ Experiences of Using English Song Lyrics for Language Learning

Learning English beyond the classroom provides learners with opportunities to develop their language skills through enjoyable activities, including listening to English songs. Although previous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of English songs in improving language skills, limited attention has been given to learners’ experiences of using English song lyrics for informal language learning beyond the classroom. Therefore, this study aimed to explore senior high school students’ experiences of using English song lyrics for language learning beyond the classroom. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed involving five senior high school students from grades 10 to 12, purposively selected based on their experience using English song lyrics for informal learning. Data were collected through online semi-structured interviews in June 2026 and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings identified five major themes related to learning beyond the classroom, learning strategies, language learning, the application of English in everyday life, and learners’ perceptions. Participants reported that English song lyrics enhanced vocabulary, pronunciation, everyday expressions, idioms, and slang while encouraging them to use English in daily communication. Overall, English song lyrics served as an enjoyable and meaningful resource that complemented formal English learning and supported informal language development beyond the classroom.