Abstract:
Video films are considered by traditional
teachers as just light entertainments. They have
technical difficulties associated with using them in the
language classroom. However, these days, language
teachers recognize the potential of the video films as
a language teaching aid. They take advantage of the
video films for teaching all four skills. The content of
the film provides the opportunities for language
practice. Moreover, language can be used to explore
the content. In Myanmar, where English as a foreign
language is actively used only in the classroom, video
films offer excellent language exposure to students
outside the classroom. Videos make language
learning enjoyable and fun. They motivate both the
students and the teachers. The presenter explores the
possibilities of utilizing the video clips for language
teaching at tertiary level. Several video clips are
selected and the content-based approach is used to
teach first year students at the University of Computer
Studies, Panglong. The video clips are used not only
to teach language but also to release it from the
students repertoire. The tasks are carefully planned
beforehand and the students’ knowledge of the
vocabulary and topic are checked. Several tasks such
as video review, alternative ending, and summary
writing are given. It is found that although there are
some obstacles to surmount, video clips are a
welcome addition to the repertoire of language
teaching aids.
