Vocabulary Learning And Retention: Cognitive Load Framework On Trial

Abstract

The literature has witnessed a large number of studies investigating the merits and effectiveness of the available methods of vocabulary teaching and learning in different EFL/ESL contexts among which one can refer to the involvement load hypothesis (ILH). Despite its widespread use, some criticisms have been levelled against this model. A new framework, namely cognitive load framework (CLF), has recently been proposed. Although CLF has been validated by some TESL experts, it has not, yet, been put to the acidity test. Therefore, the present quasi-experimental study was carried out to determine whether activities with higher cognitive load degrees as predicted by CLF framework are more effective for vocabulary learning and retention. To this end, a sample of 60 Iranian EFL learners was assigned to three experimental groups and was exposed to vocabulary learning tasks with different cognitive load indices for eight weeks. Experimental group 1 received the tasks with high cognitive load, while experimental groups 2 and 3 received the medium and low cognitive load tasks, respectively. The findings revealed that the vocabulary tasks with the highest cognitive load were the most effective, and those with the lowest load were the least effective in vocabulary learning and retention.