Teaching culture through films in the EFL classroom

Abstract

Abstract. The present article aims to identify useful tips derived from an action research experience in teaching culture with films in an online high school class. To achieve this objective, an action research methodology was developed, in this sense, lesson plans were designed and implemented over four weeks through an academic intervention in first year high school students belonging to the "Luis Fernando Ruiz" Educational Unit. The data were obtained through some instruments applied, which included a teacher's reflection form, a peer observer´s table and a survey to students to obtain their comments. As a result, analysis of the data suggested some useful tips to teach culture with films in an online high school class, such as: a) Give clear instructions; b) Consider the length of the films; c) Use didactic material to attract students’ attention; d) Motivate students; e) Select online tools carefully; f) Give enough time to complete activities, g) Analyze student’s connectivity; h) Take into account the time; i) Promote students’ participation; and, j) Provide some feedback. However, there were some limitations, which were related to number of classes taught to students, number of students who attended classes, and those students who completed the survey. From these results, it is concluded that the use of films in teaching English contributes to students´ cultural knowledge and reinforces language learning. By integrating all these tips in the teaching process, it is possible to teach culture to students in a motivating way, permitting to achieve the lesson objectives about improving cultural knowledge.
 Keywords: Films, culture, language teaching.