A recent study by the Ifo Institute has revealed a significant correlation between the use of subtitles on films and television series and improved English language proficiency across Europe. Analyzing data from 36 European countries alongside the results of English language assessments, the research demonstrates that nations opting to subtitle English-language content rather than dubbing it achieve demonstrably higher scores on English proficiency tests.
On average, countries employing subtitling exhibit an English language competency level that is more than a full proficiency level higher than those relying on synchronization. The exposure to the original audio has a particularly noticeable impact on both listening comprehension and speaking skills.
“Language acquisition doesn’t solely occur within the confines of the classroom; it’s largely a product of everyday experience” explained Frauke Baumeister, an Ifo Institute researcher. “Subtitles provide a simple and cost-effective mechanism to enhance English skills for millions of people effortlessly, without requiring formal instruction.
The study underscores the crucial role of subtitling versus dubbing in shaping the overall English language competence of a society. Baumeister noted that an earlier adoption of subtitling practices by countries like Germany, traditionally reliant on synchronization, could have resulted in a considerably higher average English language proficiency level.
