Abstak
According to a study by Naderiheshi in 2022, vocabulary is a fundamental
component in English language learning. For teenagers, vocabulary mastery is
particularly important as it supports academic achievement, access to digital
content, and future opportunities. Spotify, a widely used audio streaming platform,
offers abundant English-language content including songs with lyrics and
educational podcasts, making it a potential medium for informal vocabulary
learning. Although previous studies have explored the use of music and digital
platforms in language learning, limited research has specifically examined the role
of Spotify in supporting English vocabulary learning among teenagers in the
Indonesian context. This study therefore aims to explore the benefits of Spotify in
supporting English vocabulary learning for teenagers and to understand the learning
experiences they gain through its use. This research adopts a qualitative case study
design involving five teenage participants aged 14–16 who actively use Spotify to
access English-language content. Data were collected through semi-structured
interviews to gain in-depth insights into participants’ behaviors and perspectives.
The findings reveal several benefits: Spotify functions as an external source of
vocabulary learning where learners acquire new words incidentally through
exposure to English songs and podcasts; the lyrics feature plays a crucial role in
enhancing vocabulary understanding by connecting listening and reading
processes; and repetition through frequently replayed songs significantly supports
vocabulary retention by reinforcing memory naturally. These findings indicate that
vocabulary learning through Spotify occurs in an informal, engaging, and
autonomous manner driven by learners’ interest rather than structured instruction.
Keywords: Spotify, English Vocabulary Learning, Teenagers, Digital Learning,
Media, Informal Learning