The Role of YouTube Grammar Tutorials in Enhancing EFL Learners’ Grammar Competence and Self-Regulated Learning

This study investigates the dual role of YouTube grammar tutorials in enhancing grammatical competence and fostering self-regulated learning (SRL) among Thai EFL learners. This area remains underexplored in digital-assisted language learning research. The study employed a quasi-experimental design involving 86 Thai freshmen non-English majors at Chiang Mai University, divided into an experimental group receiving YouTube-based grammar instruction and a control group taught through traditional methods. Grammar proficiency was assessed through pre- and post-tests, while SRL development was measured using self-regulation checklists and perception surveys. The experimental group demonstrated higher mean scores in grammar proficiency alongside reduced variability, indicating more consistent performance. In contrast, the control group showed only marginal gains, indicating a positive trend toward improvement, though not statistically significant. The self-regulation checklists revealed that sustained use of YouTube tutorials improved students’ self-regulated learning (SRL) skills over five sessions. Perception surveys indicate high satisfaction with comprehension, accessibility, and autonomy, demonstrating that engagement correlated with grammatical gains and SRL development. Despite these promising results, limitations such as sample size and reliance on self-reported SRL data highlight the need for further research. The study concludes that integrating YouTube grammar tutorials with traditional instruction can enhance language proficiency and learner autonomy, though careful implementation is essential to maximize benefits and address challenges. Highlights YouTube grammar tutorials led to significantly higher grammar gains than the CLT approach instruction. Learners developed stronger self-regulated learning skills through repeated video-based cycles. Students reported high satisfaction with comprehension, accessibility, and autonomy when using YouTube tutorials.