Fostering Cultural Awareness via English Movies

Abstract

In today’s globalised world, intercultural awareness is essential for effective communication and mutual understanding. Language education extends beyond grammar and vocabulary to include cultural competence, which enables learners to navigate diverse social and cultural contexts. This study explores the role of English films as a pedagogical tool for fostering intercultural awareness among language learners. By exposing students to authentic cultural representations, films can enhance their ability to recognize, analyse, and appreciate cultural differences. The study employs a quantitative survey with university-level English as a Second Language (ESL) learners. A selected group of students engage with carefully chosen English-language films that depict various cultural perspectives. A questionnaire measures changes in students’ intercultural sensitivity, while thematic analysis of questions provides insights into their perceptions of cultural diversity. Findings indicate that students exposed to English films demonstrate greater intercultural awareness, improved critical thinking regarding stereotypes, and increased motivation to explore other cultures. However, challenges such as difficulty in understanding cultural nuances and the influence of media portrayals on perceptions were also noted. The study concludes that integrating English films into language education is an effective strategy for developing intercultural competence. It recommends structured classroom discussions and guided analysis to maximise learning outcomes. These findings contribute to the growing body of research on intercultural communication in language learning, highlighting films as an engaging and impactful educational resource.