Efficiency of Movies Compared to Traditional Instruction Methods in Language acquisition: A Comparative Analysis of English Language Acquisition in a Foreign Language Classroom

Abstract

Learners' perceptions of the learning and teaching strategies for a second language (L2) play a crucial role in developing effective assessment methods, as they provide genuine feedback on the effectiveness of these approaches from the learners' perspective. This study aims to explore the views of Saudi and Sudanese students regarding the effectiveness of using films compared to traditional English language instruction. An online questionnaire was employed for data collection, consisting of ten targeted questions which focused on specific aspects of language acquisition. The results indicated that films serve as a more effective medium for language acquisition for both Saudi and Sudanese English learners. Students reported that they were able to grasp pragmatic cues, cultural elements of the L2, and other linguistic features more rapidly through films than through conventional teaching methods. There was no significant difference in the perceptions of Saudi and Sudanese students regarding the effectiveness of films in language acquisition. This finding reinforces the notion that films are widely favored among English as Foreign Language (EFL) learners. The study recommended that the use of films as educational resources should be further integrated into the curricula of EFL/ESL classes in both Sudan and Saudi Arabia.