Fanfiction as an Academic Tool for Advanced Language Fluency: A Study

Abstract

In this globalized world, a thorough grasp of the English language has mushroomed as an inexorable necessity than an obligation. Traditional language learning is often turning out to be an involuntary process, alienating learners and thereby posing bigger challenges to second language teaching. Given the ongoing diversified technological revolution, an informal user-friendly ambience was created, making learning an uncomplicated and stress-free exercise. Digital platforms aid in several ways for learning languages - such as online language courses and special purpose mobile applications. Exposure to the language is vital in the learning process and social media can be of great help here. There is no better choice as a practice ground than social media and its associated forms. Fanfiction forums are the most popular reading and writing communities on the Internet. This paper attempts to throw light on how fanfiction can be useful in the task-based language teaching method for attainment of advanced fluency in reading and writing skills. A looming literary sensation and a source of entertainment, fanfictions of prominent literary works and visual arts are widely read and accepted by masses. This fictional writing can be incorporated into a higher-level language classroom as a learning tool, under the guidance of teachers who are accustomed to this form of writings and are digitally literate. A sample survey was conducted among fan fiction groups to highlight and justify the efficacy of fanfiction in promoting English language learning.