Many parents say that TV rots their children’s brains. But, for one family in central Taiwan, TV is a valuable educational tool that has boosted the kids’ test scores.
Most parents probably see TV as something that will lower their children’s test scores. But for one Yunlin County family, TV time is time well spent. The father says he has put his daughters on a strict regimen of American TV shows that is designed to improve their English. Watch as he pauses a show and asks his daughter what the subtitles mean.
In fact, Mr. Lin’s two daughters have reached a point where they no longer need Chinese subtitles. The elder Lin sister, Lin Chien-yo, says that TV has helped her see English as less of a tedious school subject, and fostered her interest in the language. She says that if you view English as just a school subject, you’re less likely to do well with it.
Crazy as it sounds, Mr. Lin’s method works like magic. Lin Chien-yo has never once sought outside help for her English proficiency, and yet she’s been recognized by her school for her linguistic excellence. Her teachers say her English level is as good as someone who’s studied abroad.
Mr. Lin says that it’s all about context. TV provides important cues which textbooks can’t. He says that subtitles, settings, actors’ expressions, and precise pronunciation all help his children garner an even better understanding of the language.
Just listen to Lin Chien-yo talk about her English education...in English!