Recent advances in digital video have lead to a convergence of mainstream
entertainment (e.g., movies) and language learning tools. An example is a software
system/media player called L1, which provides interactive subtitling and
learning support for DVD entertainment products. Convergence of entertainment and
learning resources raises challenging language learning software design tensions.
The article reports a study of English language learners who were asked to use the
L1 system and to rate the system features in terms of ease of use and
learning. The results showed several distinct design preferences depending on the
user’s more general attitudes toward edutainment resources. The article
discusses L1’s consequent design modifications. as well as design
considerations for language learning edutainment resources more generally.
