Lexical Development Through Podcasts

Abstract

The application of different technologies has changed modern language classes drastically compared to traditional classes. These days we come across with different terms such as Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) or Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL). A new technology used in language classes is called podcast. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of using podcasts on vocabulary learning of Iranian EFL university students. Furthermore, it aimed to report about learners’ attitudes toward using podcast as a tool to enhance lexical items. The paper describes the pedagogical usage of podcast in learning English as a foreign language. The participants of this study were 32 EFL learners majoring TEFL. They were randomly assigned into two groups, experimental and control. All participants took a pre-test and a post-test. The participants of experimental group were exposed to some podcasts containing some highlighted words. However the participants of the control group were taught new lexical items traditionally. A mixed method was used to gather data both qualitatively and qualitatively. T-test was used as statistical means. The findings showed a significant difference between two groups lexical development.