Enhancing technical vocabulary learning: A comparative study of a mobile multimedia app and a word list
System, cilt.138, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 138
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.system.2025.103962
- Dergi Adı: System
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, IBZ Online, Periodicals Index Online, Communication Abstracts, EBSCO Education Source, Educational research abstracts (ERA), MLA - Modern Language Association Database, MLA International Bibliography, EBSCO Communication Source, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Communication Source (EBSCO), Education Source Ultimate (EBSCO)
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Intentional vocabulary learning, Multimedia applications, Technical vocabulary, Word lists
- Kırklareli Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Traditional word lists have long served as a foundational technique in vocabulary learning, yet recent advancements in language learning technologies have offered alternative approaches, such as multimedia apps, that aim to enhance learner engagement and retention. In light of these technological advancements, the present quasi-experimental study investigates the effectiveness of a multimedia app in learning technical vocabulary compared to traditional word lists. The study involved 56 low-proficiency L2 English learners majoring in computer programming at a university in Turkey. The study had a within-participant design, and these learners learned a set of technical words related to computer programming using a word list (learning phase 1) and the WordUp app (learning phase 2). Vocabulary learning gains were measured using a vocabulary posttest administered immediately after each learning phase and again five weeks later. In addition to test results, students' ( n = 10) perceptions of both learning techniques were gathered through semi-structured interviews. The results indicated that the use of the multimedia app led to greater gains in both immediate and delayed vocabulary posttests compared to the use of a word list, and students responded favorably to its use for vocabulary learning. However, the findings also revealed certain limitations and areas for improvement in the app's design and its alignment with technical vocabulary learning needs, which should be considered in the use and development of multimedia vocabulary learning applications.