How to Use Netflix for Educational Purposes

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31 Jul 2024

Netflix is widely known as a platform for entertainment, but it also offers a wealth of educational content that can be utilized for learning and teaching.

From documentaries to dramatizations of historical events, Netflix provides a unique opportunity to engage with a variety of subjects in an accessible format.

This article explores how to use Netflix for educational purposes, offering strategies and recommendations for maximizing the platform's potential in both formal and informal educational settings.

Exploring Educational Content on Netflix

Netflix hosts a vast array of content that can serve educational purposes across various disciplines. By exploring different genres and categories, educators and learners can find valuable resources to complement traditional learning methods.

Documentaries and Docuseries
Netflix has an extensive collection of documentaries and docuseries that cover topics ranging from history and science to social issues and the arts. These programs provide in-depth explorations of specific subjects, making complex topics more accessible and engaging.

Recommended Titles:

Our Planet: An exploration of the world's natural beauty and the impacts of climate change, narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

Explained: A docuseries that delves into various topics, providing clear and concise explanations on subjects such as cryptocurrency, pandemics, and music.

Historical Dramas and Biographies
While dramatizations of historical events or biographical stories may include artistic liberties, they can serve as a gateway to deeper learning about real-world figures and events. These films and series often inspire viewers to research the true stories behind the dramatizations.

Recommended Titles:

The Crown: A dramatization of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, offering insights into British history and political events.

The Social Dilemma: A documentary-drama hybrid that explores the human impact of social networking.

Science and Nature
For those interested in the natural world and scientific phenomena, Netflix offers a variety of programs that bring these subjects to life with stunning visuals and expert insights.

Recommended Titles

Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey: Hosted by Neil deGrasse Tyson, this series explores the universe's wonders and scientific breakthroughs.

Abstract: The Art of Design: A docuseries that provides an inside look at the creative processes of designers and artists from various fields.

Social and Cultural Issues
Netflix's content can be a powerful tool for exploring social and cultural issues, providing a platform for underrepresented voices and fostering critical thinking about societal challenges.

Recommended Titles

13th: A documentary that examines the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States.

American Factory: A documentary about the culture clash when a Chinese billionaire reopens a factory in post-industrial Ohio.

Integrating Netflix into Educational Curricula

To effectively use Netflix as an educational tool, educators and learners should integrate its content into structured learning activities.

This approach ensures that the material is not only informative but also conducive to achieving educational objectives.

Curating Content
Educators should curate content that aligns with the learning objectives of their curriculum. This involves selecting programs that are relevant, accurate, and suitable for the students' age and comprehension levels. Providing context and background information before viewing can enhance understanding and engagement.

Pre-Viewing Preparation
Before watching a Netflix program, educators can introduce the topic through a brief lecture or discussion. This pre-viewing preparation helps students understand the key themes and concepts they should focus on during the viewing. It also allows educators to clarify any potential misconceptions.

Active Viewing Strategies
Encourage active viewing by asking students to take notes, identify key points, or consider specific questions while watching. This approach fosters critical thinking and helps students retain information. For example, while watching a documentary on climate change, students might be asked to note down evidence presented and arguments made.

Post-Viewing Discussions and Activities
After viewing, facilitate discussions or activities that encourage reflection and deeper analysis. This could include group discussions, debates, written reflections, or creative projects. Educators can guide students to connect the content to broader themes or to their own experiences and knowledge.

Utilizing Netflix for Self-Directed Learning

Netflix is not just a tool for formal education; it can also be a valuable resource for self-directed learners. Individuals interested in expanding their knowledge can use the platform to explore new subjects and deepen their understanding of familiar ones.

Setting Learning Goals
Self-directed learners should set specific goals for their Netflix viewing, such as understanding a particular historical period, learning about environmental issues, or exploring a new art form. Clear goals provide direction and motivation.

Creating a Viewing Schedule
Establishing a regular viewing schedule helps maintain consistency in learning. This schedule can be flexible but should prioritize educational content over purely entertainment-focused programming.

Engaging with Supplementary Resources
To enhance learning, viewers can engage with supplementary resources such as books, academic articles, or online courses related to the Netflix content. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Joining Discussion Groups
Engaging with others through discussion groups or online forums can enrich the learning experience. Sharing insights, asking questions, and debating interpretations with peers can deepen understanding and offer new perspectives.

Ethical and Critical Considerations

While Netflix provides a rich source of educational content, it is important to approach its use with a critical eye. Not all content is created equally, and viewers must be aware of potential biases, inaccuracies, or sensationalism.

Critical Media Literacy
Develop critical media literacy skills to analyze and evaluate the content. This includes recognizing the creators' perspectives, questioning the sources of information, and considering what might be omitted or emphasized.

Diversity and Representation
Consider the diversity and representation in the content. Reflect on whose stories are being told, who is telling them, and who might be excluded. This awareness helps viewers understand the broader social and cultural context of the content.

Fact-Checking and Cross-Referencing
For content that presents factual information, such as documentaries or historical dramas, it's important to fact-check and cross-reference with other credible sources. This practice ensures a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the topic.

Mindful Consumption
Be mindful of the balance between educational and entertainment content. While entertainment is valuable, a conscious effort to include educational material can lead to more enriching and purposeful viewing experiences.

Conclusion

Netflix, with its vast array of documentaries, dramas, and educational series, offers a unique opportunity to enhance learning in both formal and informal settings. By carefully selecting and integrating content, using active viewing strategies, and engaging in critical analysis, educators and learners can harness the platform's potential for educational purposes. Whether in the classroom or as part of a self-directed learning journey, Netflix can be a powerful tool for expanding knowledge, fostering critical thinking, and inspiring curiosity.