If you’re like me or most people interested in learning about a foreign culture, you’re at least somewhat interested in the language of that culture as well. After all, if it isn’t an English speaking country, most of the information on the web isn’t going to be in English, but in the language native to it. That is a part of the drive behind ‘fan subs’, subtitles created for content by bilingual fans when there is no official translation available. You will have especially noticed this if you’re into media from many Asian countries. If you are truly interested in getting familiar with a foreign language, and the culture of that country at the same time, ditch the subtitles and jump right in. It is easily possible to learn language and culture through Netflix at home.
The Immersion-based Approach to Language Learning
The concept of learning language through input, or immersion is nothing new. It’s why people who move to a foreign country with the intent to learn a language learn so much quicker than those taking classes or studying from textbooks in their home countries. This concept has been discussed by Stephen Krashen since the ’70s. In today’s internet era, it is easier than ever to actually immerse yourself in a foreign language without leaving your home country – or even your house for that matter. Many tools have been created and optimized for just that. Modern proof of this concept goes back to 2001 with the release of the Antimoon website, documenting the experience of a couple of Polish guys learning English through immersing themselves in the language. Modern communities exist and are thriving today centered around dozens of languages. Some of the biggest and most active today are Refold and Migaku.
Learning About a Culture Through Media
Beyond the fictional dramas that Korea has become known for next to k-pop, many documentaries and cultural variety shows exist on the web. Netflix notably has a ton, although many are restricted by region. These can be easily accessed with a VPN (I personally use NordVPN). The only catch is if the primary language of the culture you are interested in learning about isn’t English, there is a high probability that English language subtitles aren’t available officially. Hence the advent of ‘fan subs’. A perfect example of a cultural variety show is Japanese Style Originator. While this show has gained international notoriety and there are subtitles in myriad languages available, there are many similar shows available in other languages that are lesser-known and likely do not have English subtitles.
Learning Language AND Culture At The Same Time
If you were worried about the fact that English subtitles likely are not available for media from the culture you are interested in or in your target language, change your perspective and see the benefit. We all lack the willpower to deprive ourselves of what is easy to access. The advantage here is that there is content about the culture you are interested about in the language you want to learn. It’s the perfect combination to lead to quality immersion learning. The visual component should do enough to help you stay engaged and follow the main points. Supplementary research can always be conducted about the event or part of the culture to fill in the gaps. Hearing other peoples’ experience in the culture you want to visit can be really motivating. If your interest is in Japan, check out Luke’s travel blog from Nagoya.
