Abstract
This study aims to investigate the effect of using concordances and word processors on EFL graduates’ performance in academic writing. To achieve this aim, the subjects were asked to use linguistics corpora and word processors to correct their grammatical and spelling mistakes in their written papers in a course that lasted for sixteen weeks. The sample of the study consisted of 48 MA students. Quantitative and qualitative measures were used to gain possible results of the effect of using concordances and word processors on the learners’ achievement and performance in writing. Ratio gain relations were estimated, too. To find the participants’ achievement, pre- and post-tests were used; semi-interviews and answers to a questionnaire were also analyzed to investigate their attitude toward using concordances and word processors in writing. The findings indicated that their performance improved due to the effect of using concordances; however, spelling and grammar word processor had a slighter effect on their achievement. Recommendations were included for further research.
Highlights
Theoretical backgroundThe emergence of technology has solved many linguistic problems of students, teachers, translators, and linguists
The results reported by Cunningham revealed that the word processor contributed to improving their writing abilities through increasing their willingness to revise and write, and exchanging ideas with others
As the instructor worked to ensure that all students in the two treatment conditions had the same conditions except the technique, it can be inferred that the main significant effect made by the sample here is attributed to the effect of the concordance rather than word processor
Summary
Theoretical backgroundThe emergence of technology has solved many linguistic problems of students, teachers, translators, and linguists. With the help of computers, it has become possible for them to correct grammatical and spelling mistakes, calculate and compare the frequency of words in different registers, detect word collocations, and analyze and translate written texts but not accurately. Krieger (2003) in his article “What is Corpus Linguistics?” points out, “One specific area on the computer frontier which still remains quite open to exploration is corpus linguistics” (p.1). He is very interested in investigating more corpus studies that may offer the English language teacher a feasible solution to implement to improve students’ writing
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