STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF ENGLISH LEARNING MATERIALS AND MEDIA AT SMK SWASTA IMELDA MEDAN

Abstract

This study aims to analyze students’ perceptions of English learning materials and learning media at SMK Swasta Imelda Medan. The research focuses on students’ opinions regarding the relevance and effectiveness of the materials and media used in English classes. This study employed a descriptive qualitative research design. The participants were students of the Fashion Department (Busana) at SMK Swasta Imelda Medan. The data were collected through questionnaires and interviews, then analyzed descriptively to identify and interpret students’ responses. The findings showed that students generally have positive perceptions toward the English learning process, especially regarding teachers’ explanations and classroom atmosphere. However, many students stated that the learning materials were still too general and less relevant to their vocational majors because the materials mainly focused on grammar and daily conversations rather than workplace communication related to fashion and business. Students expected more contextualized materials connected to their vocational needs. In addition, students responded positively to the use of learning media such as videos, pictures, PowerPoint presentations, and audio recordings because these media helped them understand the materials more easily and increased their motivation in learning English. Nevertheless, the use of interactive and technology-based media was still limited, as teachers relied mostly on textbooks and conventional teaching methods. Therefore, more relevant materials and varied learning media are needed to improve English learning in vocational education.