Students’ Perceptions on the Use of English Movies to Enhance English Language Compentency

Abstract

Learning English vocabulary is essential because the ability to communicate in English allows individuals to explore more knowledge around the world and apply it in the appropriate context. However, few studies have examined the perception of adult language learners who use movies to independently study languages, particularly vocabulary, and improve their English language skills. This study aims to investigate the perceptions of Malaysian students who are enhancing their English proficiency using English movies as part of their learning strategies. This quantitative study involved the distribution of an online questionnaire to 92 students in semesters 5 and 6 from LG241 'Bahasa Melayu Untuk Komunikasi Profesional' at UiTM Shah Alam, who had completed the semester's English course and utilised English movies to improve their English proficiency. Findings indicated that the greater the use of English movies to improve students' English proficiency, the greater the likelihood that their English proficiency will improve; however, the effect will be insignificant. The findings also revealed that 73.7% of respondents use Google Translate, dictionaries, and ask others to translate unfamiliar words in English movies to improve their English proficiency.