Video-based mini-course:

Dan's Cantonese Journey

ABOUT

Video-based language learning has diverse advantages over foreign-language learning, such as its multimodal characteristics, overall availability, easy accessibility, etc. Audio-visual input such as video can expose learners to authentic language use and the combination of different input modes such as imagery and audio may also stimulate various aspects of second language learning such as comprehension or vocabulary. Studies on out-of-school activities have indicated that viewing videos in a foreign language is a popular out-of-school activity for young learners and it has a positive effect on learners' listening proficiency, reading proficiency, and vocabulary knowledge.

This mini-course covers four scenarios where Cantonese is used for the necessities of international students' lives in Hong Kong, including dining, housing, shopping, and transportation. Based on the ARCS model of motivation by John Keller, each video starts with the wrong use of Cantonese by the female international student character Dan. Then the correct Cantonese is demonstrated by the male local student character Ronald, who tries to increase learners' interest and build relevance with learners' daily lives. It is followed by lectures teaching the correct pronunciation of each Cantonese word and simple practices for enhancing learners' confidence and satisfaction towards their learning outcomes.