Giving Voice to Animation: Developing Animation Dubbing Media to Improve Speaking Skill Among Efl Learners

Speaking remains one of the most challenging skills for English as a foreign language (EFL) learners due to limited exposure to authentic spoken English and insufficient opportunities for expressive practice, which can lead to a period of stagnation, such as the intermediate plateau phase. This research and development (R&D) study aimed to develop a voiceless animation dubbing media titled “Forgiven” and examine its effectiveness in improving learners’ pronunciation, intonation, and fluency. Using the ADDIE model (Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate), the media was created through Avatar World and CapCut, resulting in a four-minute animated video with on-screen scripts and instructional guidance. The product was validated by material (80% =Valid), media (94%=Very Valid), and language experts (90%=Very Valid). The implementation involved seven B1-level learners from Zawiyah English Club, IAIN Langsa. Data were collected through pre- and post-speaking tests and semi structured interviews. The findings showed improvement in students’ speaking performance, with mean scores increasing from 9.14 to 12.29 and an overall improvement rate of 34.5%. Qualitative analysis revealed increased engagement, reduced speaking anxiety, improved awareness of pronunciation and intonation, and positive perceptions of dubbing as a character-based activity. Students reported feeling more confident and less anxious during speaking practice. This research concludes that animation-dubbing media are pedagogically effective and engaging, providing an innovative, student-centered approach to speaking instruction in EFL contexts. The researcher contributes an adjustable animation-dubbing model as a practical and fun resource for EFL teachers to personalize speaking activities, ensuring that educational media remains relevant and highly engaging for diverse learner needs.