Online informal learning: new perspectives in the learning and teaching of English in Europe

Broadband access to the Internet and multiuser web interfaces have meant that learners in countries where English language television output is dubbed into the local language can now download or stream programs in English. These learners are also involved in a range of other online activities in English, all of which are beginning to have an impact on their language skills. This online informal learning of English has been the subject of several recent studies, and the purpose of this article is to present a review of our own work in this field over four years. Quantitative and qualitative aspects of these phenomena are discussed, both to indicate how widespread they are and to measure their impact on listening comprehension and writing in English. Finally, practical suggestions for the classroom are presented and further avenues for research suggested.