Publication Date

5-28-2021

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (Master of Arts in TESOL)

First Advisor

Elka Todeva

Abstract

Film is a powerful medium for language acquisition; Not only does viewing films allow learners to experience language used in various real-life contexts, but the medium of film itself is a form of communication. Through the active viewing of films, students can explore how people with diverse backgrounds, accents, and cultures communicate using multiple modes such as gestures, images, and sounds. When learners are familiar with the techniques used by filmmakers to convey meaning, they can use the medium of film themselves to tell their stories and share their perspectives through filmmaking projects. Such projects can be collaborative and engaging and build on the four skills as well 21st century skills. This thesis establishes a theoretical foundation by introducing key theories related to the use of film for language learning and how they can be beneficial if implemented effectively. The author then examines teacher preparedness for implementing film viewing and filmmaking in the classroom, first by reviewing the literature of studies that have been done, then goes on to discuss the results and implications of original research conducted by the author of teachers and their experiences and perceptions of using film in their classrooms. The paper concludes with the lessons learned from the design and delivery of multiple iterations of a professional development workshop for educators interested in using film.

Disciplines

Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education | Curriculum and Social Inquiry | Educational Technology | Film Production | First and Second Language Acquisition | Instructional Media Design | Language and Literacy Education | Other Teacher Education and Professional Development | Visual Studies

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