HUE UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES --------------- LE THI KIM CHI LEARNING ENGLISH VOCABULARY THROUGH ONLINE APPLICATIONS BY STUDENTS AT HUFLIS MA THESIS IN THEORY AND METHODOLOGY OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts, University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University THUA THIEN HUE, 2023 HUE UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES --------------- LE THI KIM CHI LEARNING ENGLISH VOCABULARY THROUGH ONLINE APPLICATIONS BY STUDENTS AT HUFLIS MA THESIS IN THEORY AND METHODOLOGY OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING CODE: 8140111 SUPERVISOR: ASSOC. LE PHAM HOAI HUONG, Ph. THUA THIEN HUE, 2023 ĐẠI HỌC HUẾ TRƯỜNG ĐẠI HỌC NGOẠI NGỮ --------------- LÊ THỊ KIM CHI VIỆC HỌC TỪ VỰNG TIẾNG ANH THÔNG QUA CÁC ỨNG DỤNG TRỰC TUYẾN BỞI CÁC SINH VIÊN TRƯỜNG ĐẠI HỌC NGOẠI NGỮ HUẾ LUẬN VĂN THẠC SĨ LÝ LUẬN VÀ PHƯƠNG PHÁP DẠY HỌC BỘ MÔN TIẾNG ANH MÃ SỐ: 8140111 NGƯỜI HƯỚNG DẪN KHOA HỌC: PGS. LÊ PHẠM HOÀI HƯƠNG THUA THIEN HUE, 2023 STATEMENT OF ORIGINAL AUTHORSHIP The work contained in this thesis has not been previously submitted for a degree in any university.
I certify that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, my thesis contains no material previously published or written by another person except where due reference is made in the thesis itself. Signed: ………………………… Le Thi Kim Chi Date: 06/ 11/2023 i ABSTRACT This study aims to investigate the perceptions, usage patterns, and evaluation of learning English vocabulary through online applications by undergraduate students at Hue University of Foreign Languages and International Studies (HUFLIS). The research delves into students' attitudes towards online vocabulary learning, their preferred strategies for learning English vocabulary with the online applications, and the effectiveness of these platforms. The study involved 100 participants from HUFLIS and data were collected by using a questionnaire, journal writing, and interview with 10 participants to obtain a comprehensive view of students' experiences and perspectives on learning English vocabulary through online applications.
The key findings revealed that students at HUFLIS held positive perceptions of learning English vocabulary through online applications. They perceived that learning English vocabulary via online applications particularly was convenient but expressed low confidence in their ability to learn vocabulary. Besides, the study uncovered diverse usage patterns and vocabulary learning strategies reported to be employed by students when using online applications. More specifically, the participants reported to use flashcards, mnemonic devices, and engage in contextual learning.
Some create personalized vocabulary lists on online applications and reviewed them frequently. They appreciated the interactive features of online applications, such as quizzes, games, and multimedia content, which enhanced their motivation and involvement in the learning experience. They also engaged in online discussions and wrote in English to expand their vocabulary and practice using new words. Moreover, they used spaced repetition techniques through online applications to reinforce their retention of new vocabulary and used online applications to practice pronunciation and learned the correct usage of new vocabulary.
Moreover, students appreciated the accessible learning materials and interactive exercises, which allowed customization of online vocabulary learning based on preferences. They found online applications effective for vocabulary expansion, ii memorization, and reinforcement. Students' confidence in using English vocabulary across contexts grew post-application use. The personalized experience and avoidance of vocabulary repetition were also viewed positively.
From the findings, it is suggested that incorporating online vocabulary learning applications into language education programs be carried out with attention given to addressing students' confidence concerns, and application features tailored to provide personalized learning experiences. iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I wish to convey my profound appreciation to those who have me unwavering support during the course of completing my master's thesis. First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my supervisor, Assoc. Le Pham Hoai Huong, whose invaluable guidance, mentorship, and perceptive feedback have played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of my research.
Her expertise has significantly enriched this work, and I am honored to have been under her tutelage. Without her supervision, the realization of this master's journey would have been unattainable. I am equally appreciative of the faculty members at Hue University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, notably the panelists including Assoc. Pham Thi Hong Nhung, Dr.
Bao Kham, Dr. Truong Bach Le, Dr. Nguyen Ho Hoang Thuy, Dr. Tran Quang Ngoc Thuy, and Dr.
Nguyen Van Huy who gave me advice on the proposal of this study and taught me in the MA program. I am indebted to the participants of my study, whose time and insights have been priceless contributions that paved the way for this research. My gratitude extends to my family and friends for their continuous encouragement and unwavering belief in my capabilities. Their emotional backing has been the propelling force behind my persistence.
I also would like to extend my thanks to the English Department of Hue University of Foreign Languages and International Studies for providing the essential resources and facilities for my research endeavors. iv List of tables Table 4.1 Background information of the participants .2 HUFLIS students’ perceptions of using online applications to learn English vocabulary. HUFLIS students’ usage patterns of online vocabulary learning applications. Students’ evaluation of learning vocabulary through online applications.
45 v List of abbreviations HUFLIS……………… Hue University of Foreign Languages and International Studies Apps…………………. Applications M……………………… Mean SD………………………Standard deviation vi TABLE OF CONTENTS Statement of Original Authorship. iv List of tables. v List of abbreviations.
vi Table of contents .vii CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION .2 Research objectives and questions. 4 CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW .1 Definitions of key terms related to the research topic .2 Technology and language learning .3 Self-study in language learning .4 Learning vocabulary via online applications .5 Advantages and challenges of learning vocabulary via online applications ….1 Advantages of learning vocabulary via online applications .2 Challenges of learning vocabulary via online applications .6 Previous studies related to the topic .7 Gaps in the literature. 21 CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY .4 Data collection tools .7 Research reliability and validity. 32 CHAPTER 4: FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION .1 Demographic Variables of the Participants .2 Students’ perceptions of online vocabulary applications .3 How students use online vocabulary learning applications .4 Students’ evaluation of learning vocabulary through online applications.
51 CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION AND SUGGESTIONS .1 Summary of Key Findings .4 Suggestions for Further Research .5 Contributions of the Current Study. 72 viii CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 1.1 Rationale The current study was carried out for several reasons. Firstly, in today's globalized age, English language proficiency is increasingly essential for effective communication, academic pursuits, and career opportunities. A critical component of language learning is English vocabulary acquisition, and it is becoming apparent that traditional classroom methods may not always adequately address the diverse learning needs of students.
In response to this challenge, technology and the internet have ushered in a new era where online applications and platforms serve as accessible and versatile resources for language learners. These online tools offer a wide range of interactive approaches to engage with vocabulary, accommodating various learning preferences and styles. As a result, online learning, facilitated by modern technology, has emerged as one of the most popular and effective methods, particularly in language acquisition. It not only saves time and costs but also fosters highly interactive learning experiences that empower students to plan their studies according to their unique preferences and passions.
Furthermore, today's rapid technological advancements have significantly transformed the landscape of education, giving rise to the field of educational technologies. Chun et al. (2016) indicated that the relationship between language and technology is not new, dating back over 5000 years to the development of writing. In contemporary education, technology has not only revolutionized teaching practices but also reshaped marketing and educational strategies.
Moreover, the successful integration of mobile learning in higher education is influenced by factors such as device ownership, connectivity, and access to technology, as noted by Naismith and Corlett (2017). In the realm of learning English, new media approaches have emerged, including applications that allow users to download and install language-learning programs, offering practical and convenient solutions for language learners. Secondly, there is a growing trend among students to frequently utilize mobile devices, presenting an opportunity to enhance motivation and adopt learner-centered 1 approaches (Kessler, 2018). This, in turn, has the potential to significantly boost English proficiency, both within the classroom and in real-world contexts.
As highlighted by Murcia (2001), vocabulary holds a pivotal role in the four essential language skills of reading, listening, speaking, and writing. However, effective retention of vocabulary remains a challenge. To address this issue, a multitude of online applications, including those specifically designed for language learning, have become readily accessible. These applications have proven to be invaluable tools for vocabulary enhancement across all age groups.
Notably, EFL (English as a Foreign Language) students can harness the power of mobile learning applications, as demonstrated in Klimova's research in 2019. Studies, such as the one conducted by Wu in 2015, have consistently shown that students tend to remember words more effectively when using these applications. In fact, when app-using students were compared to their non-using counterparts, they exhibited a remarkable recall of 89 additional new English terms, underlining the positive impact of mobile applications on vocabulary acquisition. Thirdly, the mastery of English vocabulary holds a foundational position in the process of learning English as a foreign language (EFL), as noted by Min (2008).
Vocabulary development is intricately connected to various language domains, serving as the cornerstone for skills such as speaking, listening, reading, and writing. A comprehensive and extensive vocabulary is imperative for learners to excel in these language competencies and effectively communicate across all aspects of language use. The pivotal role of vocabulary in language learning has been extensively recognized in the literature, as emphasized by Cesarini et al. Notably, researchers like Lestari (2018), Wahjuningsih (2018), Setiawan & Wiedarti (2020), and Maritha & Dakhi (2017) have underscored the significance of vocabulary in language development.
Incorporating technology into language education becomes imperative given students' familiarity with digital devices and software tools, as articulated by Handrianto et al. In a world where technology has become an integral part of daily life, its role in education should be thoroughly reevaluated to enhance the effectiveness of student 2 learning. This necessitates exploring how technology, particularly online applications, can play a pivotal role in fostering interactive and engaging learning experiences. Lastly, mastering English vocabulary is a top goal for EFL students.
Usually, when we learn a second language in general and English in particular, the first of our needs is to get vocabulary as much as possible. Besides, learning English vocabulary does not mean knowing the words only, it is necessary to understand the word in all aspects such as its spelling meaning and its use in context. Since English becomes the international language, it is globally used in communication. Therefore, the more vocabulary we know, the easier we can express our thoughts.
HUFLIS students have already got a large number of vocabularies since they passed their entrance examination. While some of them use their vocabulary effectively in communication, others make lots of mistakes. Thus, learning vocabulary is always fundamental for English learners to fulfill their skills. With the assistance of online learning applications, students now can self-study their vocabulary quickly, easily, and effectively.
In addition, online learning applications are usually designed with pictures, games, and other supportive elements that improve students' vocabulary efficiently.2 Research objectives and questions This study aims to investigate HUFLIS students’ perceptions of using online English learning applications to learn vocabulary and their use of these applications. Thereby, the study also expects to recognize their online vocabulary learning needs, problems and suggest suitable English vocabulary applications for students to improve their vocabulary effectively. Research Questions To fulfill the purposes of the study, the study sought to answer the following research questions: 1. What are HUFLIS students' perceptions of learning English vocabulary through online applications?