How to Use Facebook Live Video to Learn a Language
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Did you know Facebook can help you to improve your listening skills in just about any language?
I didn’t!
At least not until a few weeks ago when I stumbled across a feature that had been hiding behind a little tab on my Facebook home screen.
Recently, I was surprised to find out just how much you, the readers, struggle with listening. In fact, when I asked the question on Facebook, your biggest language-learning problems were Listening and Speaking (they finished almost neck and neck!).
So, I took it upon myself to try and find some ways to help you improve your listening skills each and every day.
Read on for some practical tips on how to use Facebook Live to improve your listening skills in another language, while getting a deeper insight into another culture.
A note from the Fluent in 3 Months team before we get started: You can chat away with a native speaker for at least 15 minutes with the “Fluent in 3 Months” method. All it takes is 90 days. Tap this link to find out more.
Why Facebook Live Videos are a Great Language-Learning Tool
I’m always excited when I find a new tool for learning languages. And, if it connects you with real native speakers, then it’s even better. That’s exactly what Facebook Live does.
Facebook Live Video allows you to watch things happening LIVE in another part of the world. You get to watch a different culture through the lens of someone else’s mobile phone or webcam.
With Facebook Live, you can find normal people talking about their problems, celebrities trying to connect with their audiences, and news channels sharing the day’s critical stories. That’s really just the start of the content.
Why do I like Facebook Live so much as a language-learning tool?
Because it’s real. You get to see real life. In technical language, you’re exposed to a range of audio qualities. Not everything is recorded in a vacuum like a podcast (though podcasts are great too!) or professional YouTube video. Instead you’ll have to listen through traffic noise, background conversations and the occasional interruption.
Finally, you don’t need a lot of time to dip into Facebook Live. It’s informal and much like television you can tune in and out whenever you’re able to.
Okay, so that’s why Facebook Live is a good option. Now let’s dive into how you can use it.
How to Use Facebook Live for Language Learning
Facebook’s menus have changed since this article first appeared, so the old Live Video dashboard and world-map instructions no longer apply. Start by searching Facebook for Pages and creators who post in your target language. Follow the ones whose topics and speaking style suit you.
When a Page offers Live notifications, use its Follow settings to choose the notifications you want. Availability and menu names can vary by device and account.
During a broadcast, listen for the main idea first, then replay any saved video for details. If comments are open, ask a short, relevant question or reply to another viewer politely. That gives you listening practice and a small amount of writing practice without relying on the old discovery map.
More Ways to Use Facebook Live for Language Learning – Hang Out With Me!
Facebook Live can still be useful, but broadcasts and schedules change. Treat this as a way to find current target-language video rather than a promise of any particular event.
You can also follow the Fluent in 3 Months Facebook Page and other language-learning Pages, then check each Page for its current videos and schedule.
Want to make sure you’re the first to know when I’ll be running a live event? Then sign up for Fluent in 3 Months email updates. I’ll also send you weekly language learning tips! You'll see a sign-up box beneath this article to join.
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