FluentU

FluentU is a really good tool for autonomous learning. It has a variety of videos learners can choose from. Once you complete 'study settings', FluentU will provide you with appropriate videos.

This is an example. Language: English, Level: Intermediate

Videos vary from language learning videos to film clips.

Each video is accompanied with subtitles.

Also, if you put the cursor on each word, it provides you with explanations with images if possible. The video stops while the cursor is on a word.

If you click on the pop up window from a word, you will find divers examples using that specific word usually with some video clips.

Those videos will help you understand how the word is actually used with various contextualised examples.

You can also choose 'Learn' to actually learn some words.

If you click on 'LEARN', you will have instructions to focus on certain words.

One of the big problems in language learning is that whether or not materials are authentic, whether or not learners are exposed to the real use of their target language. It is good to use textbooks designed locally for learners in a specific context because the approaches might suit learners in that specific context. However, each individual has his/her learning style, interest, motivation, or preference. Some might not be satisfied with textbook-based teaching. FluentU will be an ideal tool for those who would like to learn languages by using films, different teaching approaches, and various materials which are not from textbooks. However, it would make learners frustrated if there were problems in accessing Internet or finding interesting materials. I also wonder what could the teacher do to help learners make a good use of this tool.


Here is the link to FluentU. You can sign up for free!

http://www.fluentu.com/