Shadowing and going native (fringe) are two different concepts, though they can be connected in certain contexts, particularly in fringe groups. Here’s a breakdown of each:

Shadowing:

• In general, shadowing refers to the act of following someone discreetly, usually to observe their activities or whereabouts. This is often used in investigative contexts, where a detective or private investigator might tail a suspect.

Going Native (Fringe):

• The term “going native” typically applies to someone who adopts the customs and behaviors of a culture different from their own, often to a point where they seem to abandon their original identity.
• In a fringe context, “going native” can have a more negative connotation. It might imply someone becoming completely absorbed by a fringe group’s beliefs or practices, even if those beliefs are harmful or dangerous.

Connection:

• Fringe groups often have distinct cultures and practices. Someone who joins a fringe group and fully embraces these practices, potentially even abandoning their previous beliefs, could be seen as “going native” in this fringe context.
• In some cases, shadowing might be used to investigate a fringe group, where someone observes members to learn more about their activities.

It’s important to note that “going native” (especially in the fringe context) can be a loaded term. It can imply a loss of critical thinking or a disregard for potential dangers within the group.

Also, from another source:

“Shadowing” and “going native” are terms often used in language learning and cultural immersion contexts.

Shadowing: This is a technique used in language learning where a learner listens to an audio recording of a native speaker and simultaneously repeats (or shadows) what they hear. The goal is to improve pronunciation, intonation, and overall fluency by mimicking the native speaker’s speech patterns. It helps learners get accustomed to the rhythm and flow of the language.

Going Native: This term refers to immersing oneself deeply in a foreign culture to the extent that the individual adopts the customs, behaviors, and sometimes even the language of the native people. It’s a form of cultural immersion where one tries to live like a local, embracing the lifestyle and values of the community. This can be an effective way to learn a language and understand a culture from the inside out.

Both shadowing and going native can be effective strategies for language acquisition and cultural understanding, but they require dedication, openness, and a willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone.