Subtitles early implementations and current applications: from cinematic purposes to acquiring new languages The power of subtitles: 3 reasons why to turn on the video's subtitles

Rawan Essam 

Subtitling has invaded the world since the early 1900s for cinematic purposes. Nowadays, subtitles have become a new source to acquire a new language. Subtitling serves as an essential learning tool for foreigners seeking to acquire a new language. By adjusting subtitles to the desired language, learners can enhance all four language skills, including vocabulary acquisition, comprehension of idioms, and improvement in listening, spelling, and reading abilities. 

1. Improve listening comprehension 

By watching videos with subtitles, learners are exposed to spoken language, which enhances their listening skills and comprehension of word usage. According to a study, watching films with subtitles, especially in the original language, can significantly enhance a learner's listening skills. This immersion in spoken language, coupled with reading subtitles, aids in acquiring the sounds of letters, contributing to pronunciation improvement. As learners listen more, they become adept at distinguishing different accents, enabling them to choose the accent they wish to acquire (1).

To assess language proficiency, learners can gradually transition from watching with subtitles to watching without them. Although initially challenging, this phase fosters concentration and auditory processing skills. Learners can overcome difficulties by toggling subtitles as needed, allowing them to clarify any unclear segments. This gradual approach empowers learners to develop listening proficiency and comprehension abilities while enjoying multimedia content. 

2. Expand vocabulary 

Watching videos with subtitles can significantly enhance a learner's vocabulary and expand it, without the expectation of mastering every word. Videos provide an opportunity to learn everyday language, which is often different from the formal language, thus offering a more natural learning experience. Learners can acquire new vocabulary within specific contexts, making it easier to understand and remember words when linked to particular topics (2). 

When encountering unfamiliar words or idioms while watching videos, learners can easily search for their meanings in dictionaries and make notes in their notebooks. By putting these new words or idioms into sentences, learners can reinforce their understanding and commit them to memory more effectively. There are different valuable resources for this purpose, where learners can search for words and listen to them being used in various contexts, aiding in comprehension and retention.

3. Improve speaking and writing skills 

Watching videos with subtitles not only improves listening comprehension but also enhances pronunciation skills. Subtitles enhance speaking abilities by employing techniques like shadowing, where learners repeat what they hear and attempt to synchronize with the original video, aids in developing accurate pronunciation and allows learners to track their speaking progress (3) (4). 

Furthermore, watching videos can also improve writing skills. After watching a video, learners can challenge themselves to write a brief summary, effectively utilizing their vocabulary and organizing their thoughts coherently. This practice helps reinforce language skills and encourages learners to apply what they have learned in a meaningful way.

In summary, subtitles can be a valuable tool for language learning and skill development. Learning a new language traditionally can be tedious and may not sustain motivation. To ensure progress without boredom, incorporate enjoyable activities like watching or listening to content in the target language.