Watching Foreign Audiovisual Programs and Out-of-Class Language Learning

Given the prominence attached to watching foreign films and TV shows in learning a language, the present study aims to identify out-of-class language learning opportunities and activities in which university students are engaged, and to examine students’ attitudes towards watching foreign programs with the aim of learning a language. In doing so, the data were quantitatively and qualitatively gathered a select group of undergraduate students. Initial results suggest that a large number of students watch foreign programs with Persian subtitles in their spare time. Additionally, watching foreign programs, along with listening to songs were found to be the most frequent out-of-class language learning activities. As a result, informal learning may take place from extensive watching of foreign cinematic programs. Other findings illustrate that students perceived the use of foreign films and TV shows relatively positive, more specifically from three aspects: improving pronunciation, learning new vocabulary and enhancing listening skills.