In the digital age, where screens are ubiquitous, a significant portion of our daily activities occurs online, including work, entertainment, and even learning. Interestingly, this online prevalence has spurred an emerging trend: the use of media streaming platforms for language learning. Foremost among these platforms is Netflix. Originally created as a video rental service, Netflix has metamorphosed into a global streaming service with an extensive library of original and licensed content available in numerous languages. Today, we are witnessing the emergence of Netflix as an effective language learning platform.
Changing Views on Screen Time
Traditional wisdom often looks unfavorably upon screen time, especially when it comes to children and teens. Excessive time in front of screens has been linked to obesity, sleep disorders, and behavioral issues. However, it’s crucial to understand that screen time isn’t inherently detrimental—it largely depends on how we use it. Increasingly, educators and researchers are acknowledging that screen time can be an effective, engaging tool for learning, provided it is used in a balanced, purposeful way.
The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic in late 2019 marked a turning point in the perception of screen time. With global lockdowns and the shift to online learning, screens became an indispensable part of education. This sudden transition highlighted the potential of digital tools for learning, including unconventional platforms such as Netflix.
Netflix and Language Learning: An Unconventional Pairing
Netflix, the pioneer of streaming services, boasts an impressive library of content in multiple languages, thanks to its international presence. The service provides access to films and TV shows from all over the world, many of them in their original languages, offering an immense resource for language learners. Moreover, the availability of subtitles in various languages is a boon for those trying to learn a new language.
The idea of learning languages through media consumption is far from new. Teachers have long used films and TV shows to help students immerse themselves in a language and culture. With Netflix, this practice is simply being scaled to a global level. Learners can binge-watch their favorite shows in the target language, rewinding and replaying dialogues as many times as needed to understand the nuances and contexts.
Why Netflix Works for Language Learning
Several factors contribute to Netflix’s efficacy as a language learning platform. First, it offers an immersive language experience. Many language experts attest that immersion is one of the best ways to learn a language. Netflix allows for this immersion experience right from your living room. Watching films or series in the target language exposes learners to authentic, natural speech patterns, colloquial language, and cultural context.
Second, Netflix provides contextual language learning. Language isn’t just about vocabulary and grammar; it’s about understanding the cultural context in which it is used. The rich variety of international content on Netflix exposes learners to different cultures, customs, and contexts, helping them to understand and appreciate the language in a broader context.
Finally, learning through Netflix is engaging and entertaining. Language learning can sometimes feel like a chore, particularly for adult learners. However, watching a gripping drama, thrilling mystery, or heart-warming comedy in the target language makes the process more enjoyable. When learners are engaged and entertained, they’re more likely to stick with their language learning goals.
Enhancing Netflix Language Learning with Extensions and Apps
Capitalizing on the trend of using Netflix for language learning, developers have created extensions and apps to enhance this experience. For example, Language Learning with Netflix (LLN) is a Google Chrome extension that allows users to watch Netflix with dual subtitles (in the target language and your first language). This extension also has an interactive transcript, where users can click on any word or sentence to hear it. Another feature allows users to control the speed of the dialogue, which is beneficial for beginners who might find native speech too fast.
Moreover, there are apps such as Lingopie, which turn foreign language shows on Netflix into immersive learning experiences. With interactive subtitles, users can click on unfamiliar words or phrases to get instant definitions and pronunciations.
Challenges and Limitations
While Netflix offers a valuable resource for language learning, it should be noted that it is not a comprehensive solution. It does not provide structured learning, explicit grammar instruction, or feedback, which are critical elements of language learning. Netflix should be used as a supplementary tool in conjunction with formal language courses or tutoring for optimal results.
Moreover, not all languages are equally represented on Netflix. While there is an abundance of content in languages like English, Spanish, and French, there may be fewer options for less widely spoken languages.
Conclusion
In an era where technology is reshaping education, it is no surprise that a platform like Netflix, initially designed for entertainment, is being repurposed as a language learning tool. The vast array of multilingual content available on Netflix, coupled with its engaging nature, provides a unique way to immerse oneself in a foreign language and culture. While it’s not a standalone solution, when used strategically alongside traditional language learning methods, Netflix can enhance the language acquisition process. As the boundaries between entertainment and education continue to blur, the concept of ‘screen time as study time’ gains further validation.
