Vocabulary Learning Strategies: A Study of Indian ESL Learners Across Disciplines
Keywords:
Vocabulary Learning Strategies, Language Teaching and LearningAbstract
Understanding Vocabulary Learning Strategies (VLS) of language learners is pivotal in the field of EFL/ESL research as vocabulary knowledge can directly influence the four language skills of the learner. To this end, this present survey research attempts to examine the various vocabulary strategies employed by Indian learners from four different disciplines: Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Management in a national technical institute. This study aims to analyse the use of VLS and draw a contrast between the adoption of the VLS categories by learners across the disciplines. Schmit’s taxonomy and SIVL are used to gather data where the participants answered questionnaires and took part in an online survey. Drawing on quantitative analysis by using one-way ANOVA, findings revealed substantial differences in the usage of VLS by students from different disciplines. Memory and Socio-affective strategies showed strongest association with disciplines. This study could be best utilised by curriculum developers and ESL teachers to design materials particular to disciplines for vocabulary acquisition.
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