An Analysis of English Teaching Approaches Reflected in Movies

Sung, Ki wan

Article

Journal of English Teaching through Movies and Media 2003;4(1):3-22.
Published online June 30, 2003.

An Analysis of English Teaching Approaches Reflected in Movies

Ki wan Sung

영화 속에 나타난 영어교수 방법의 분석

성기완

Abstract

Many educators pay little attention to the effects of movies as an educational tool(Giroux, 2002). In fact, many teachers consider the use of movies an interesting, effective way to teach basic knowledge and skills for language and literature. As a result, movies have become a simple source of entertainment and are not utilized as critical texts in understanding how, and to what extent, knowledge and meanings are constructed in certain ways, but not in other ways. Accordingly, this paper analyzes movies relevant to teaching and schooling and categorizes them into four teaching models using Kliebard's classification(i.e., scientific management, humanistic, student-centered classes, and social reconstructionist approaches; 1986). More specifically, by comparing and drawing connections between four teaching approaches and current teaching practices and/or other social contexts of learning, this paper demonstrates that one's teaching behavior is historically, socioculturally, and politically constructed in particular ways. In addition, this paper highlights the importance of understanding one's association with one or more of these models and one's indeterminacy and reflective attitudes in developing and understanding oneself and one's own teaching.