How to Learn a Language with Netlfix (or other streaming services)
The rise of popularity with Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, HBO, etc. has given the public endless hours of entertainment. Blockbuster hit movies, classics, nostalgic movies, popular TV series, and documentaries are the most popular types of content we are consuming on these platforms.
What if we could learn a language while binge watching our favourite show? Many learners are now incorporating audio and/or subtitles to enhance their learning experience. Here are some methods for all types of learners. Let’s assume these learners are Spanish and they are learning English.
Beginners
If you are a new learner, a recommendation is to watch the content with English audio and subtitles in Spanish. This will begin to train the ear to the different sounds and accents over time. Choosing movies or TV series from different countries can be helpful to familiarize the ear to different accents (UK vs American for example).
Intermediate and Advanced
Choose a movie or TV series that you have watched many times. This can be your favourite for example. Watch this movie in English audio and subtitles. You will already understand the storyline and context, but it may be difficult to follow the audio. The subtitles help with this. If the speed is too fast, you may have two options: 1. Decrease the playback speed if possible and 2. Limit your time watching to small increments of time, for example 15 minutes at a time.
The combination of audio and subtitles will accelerate your understanding of a new language. It is great to keep a piece of paper and pen ready to write new words, expressions, or words that appear often in the content. Remember, if it is challenging and exhausting, you are spending too much time and trying too hard. Netflix and these other streaming services have provided an opportunity for learners to improve their speaking, listening, reading, and writing. These 4 components are the most tested in standardized tests across the world.
To summarise, here are some tips to learn a new language with Netflix
- Watch movies or series that are familiar to you
- For intermediate learners, listen and read subtitles in the language you are learning
- If you can understand new content with audio and subtitles, it is time to remove the subtitles! Audio only will use more of your brain to comprehend the information
- Start in shorter time increments. It is proven that short study bursts are more effective to retain information.
- Have fun and become entertained during the whole process!