Sweden and informal language learning

This chapter focuses on informal language learning in Sweden. Sweden has a long tradition of teaching foreign languages in school, but formal language learning is currently in many ways being “challenged” by informal language learning. Research has shown how young people develop aspects of English proficiency thanks to extensive involvement in English‐mediated activities, such as: playing digital games in English, binge‐watching English‐speaking TV series or films, watching YouTube, or reading news via apps or social media. The term extramural English has been suggested for this learner‐initiated, generally voluntary, informal way of learning. While extramural English is very common, extramural Chinese, Japanese, and Korean are on the rise. The chapter begins by describing the case of Sweden, focusing on the current language situation and technological infrastructure, and then provides a survey of informal language learning in this small but linguistically diverse country.