Language Learning with English Audio-visual Media Among the University Students of English Language and Literature at J. Selye University

Abstract

In our modern world, we are subject to a mass of information (internet, audio-visual media, videogames, etc.). Therefore, besides using ‘traditional’ methods (e.g., books), for language teachers, it is inevitable to keep up to date with new methods and materials to motivate students to develop their language skills (speaking, listening, writing, and reading). The paper focuses on one special language skill, which is listening skill, and its development through audio-visual media. The work is based on a questionnaire prepared for the students of English language and literature at J. Selye University in Slovakia. The questionnaire (including 26 questions) has three main parts. The first part aims at surveying the habits of watching English films and sitcoms (i.e., what dialect do they prefer and why? How often do they watch English films or sitcoms?). The second part tries to point out the benefits of watching films and sitcoms in a foreign language (i.e. aspects of individual language improvement). Finally, the questionnaire intends to find challenges and opportunities for language learning by listening in English. The paper and its results, based on the active learners’ experience and opinions, supposedly will motivate and draw the English language teachers’ attention to the importance of bringing authentic listening materials into their EFL classrooms for more effective education.