The Impact of Machine Translation on Vocabulary Acquisition and Reading Comprehension in ESL Learners

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of using machine translation on vocabulary acquisition and reading comprehension in English as a Second Language (ESL) learners. A total of 60 undergraduate students enrolled in an ESL course were randomly assigned to either an experimental group that used Machine Translation during language learning activities or a control group that did not use Machine Translation. Results showed that the experimental group outperformed the control group in vocabulary acquisition and reading comprehension, while also experiencing a higher cognitive load. The study suggests that while Machine Translation can be a useful tool for ESL learners, it should be used with caution and guidance to prevent negative effects on cognitive load.