Electronic and Student-created Dictionaries for Enhancing EFL Pronunciation and Vocabulary Usage

Abstract

The aim of this research is to investigate the effect of using electronic dictionaries combined with student-created dictionaries on English major students' pronunciation and vocabulary usage. Students' perceptions of this learning experience are also examined. The study combines both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Tests for pronunciation and vocabulary usage were designed and administered to73 English major students at Jouf University, KSA. Two questionnaires were designed to investigate students' perceptions. Results of the study revealed that the usage of electronic and student-created dictionaries improved students' pronunciation as well as their vocabulary usage abilities. Results also revealed that participants are willing to use both electronic and student-created dictionaries in vocabulary learning. The most frequent perceived benefits of electronic dictionaries are the speed of accessing the meaning of new vocabulary and getting clear correct pronunciation of them. The most frequent perceived benefits of student-created dictionaries are long retention and internalization of new vocabulary. Participants face some difficulties when using electronic dictionaries such as the inability to find accurate meaning of some vocabulary items and some technical problems. Participants face some difficulties with their student-created dictionaries such as difficulty in constructing illustrative sentences and time-consumption. The study recommends the incorporation of electronic and student-created dictionaries in vocabulary learning.