Scientists of Institute of Psychology and Education proofed the usefulness of mass media in the second language classroom

The article «A stage-by-stage approach to utilizing news media in foreign language classes at higher educational institutions» was published in XLinguae journal and provided the benefits of using the mass media materials.

“The role of modern news media is undoubtable in youth’ development and therefore, it can be a powerful learning tool”, commented Tatyana Baklashova, an associate professor of Institute of Psychology and Education.

The research group surveyed 48 foreign language teachers from different countries, and the results showed that the teachers chaotically use mass media in their lessons. At the same time, the participants noted the value of news media in the learning process.

Based on this data, the research team conducted a two-year experiment to test the effectiveness of news media in teaching foreign languages. An experimental group (78 students) had lessons which included mass media resources, and a control group (76) which did not receive such systemised lessons. The scientists designed a textbook that contained adapted articles from periodicals and online news platforms and implemented it to foreign languages’ lessons.

As a result, reading, speaking and listening skills of students have been improved.