The Dictionary Use among Generation Z Students of English: A Survey Study

Abstract

Dictionaries are indispensable tools for language learning. Today, every area of life has been changing rapidly with technology. In such a rapidly changing world, it is inevitable to witness changes in the dictionary behaviors of today’s generation. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the dictionary needs and habits of Generation Z students of English. In the study, the data was collected through an online survey, and the participants were university preparatory-class students of English. According to the results, Generation Z students of English prefer using electronic dictionaries rather than printed dictionaries since they believe that using electronic dictionaries saves time. Additionally, they think that dictionaries are beneficial and necessary because they help them improve their language skills while learning English. Further research on dictionary use can explore several avenues to deepen the understanding of how dictionaries are utilized, their impact on language learning, and ways to enhance their effectiveness.