Learning vocabulary in a foreign language: A computer software based model attempt

Yasemin Yelbay Yılmaz

Abstract


This study aimed at devising a vocabulary learning software that would help learners learn and retain vocabulary items effectively. Foundation linguistics and learning theories have been adapted to the foreign language vocabulary learning context using a computer software named Parole that was designed exclusively for this study. Experimental design with control and experimental groups which were formed of English learners at a university program was used and quantitative and qualitative data collection methods were employed. Quantitative data collection instruments were the pre-test, the computer software- Parole, the immediate post-test and the delayed post-test. Both of the post tests were the reimplementation of the pre-test at two different times. The qualitative data collection instruments were the semi-structured interviews done with students after the implementation of the study. The proposed model was successfully implemented and results of the quantitative statistical analyses showed at the end of the study that the software is an effective vocabulary learning model and tool that could be used to learn vocabulary in English; that words are learned more effectively and permanently using this model and that users who used the model for longer durations learned words more effectively and permanently. 


Keywords


Vocabulary learning model, vocabulary learning software, computer assisted vocabulary learning

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References


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