Glossing and vocabulary learning

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-23
Author(s):  
Frank Boers
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Systematic Reviews ◽  
Critical Review ◽  
Vocabulary Acquisition ◽  
Ecological Validity ◽  
Vocabulary Learning ◽  
L2 Reading ◽  
Reading Materials ◽  
Research Designs ◽  
L2 Vocabulary

Abstract This article offers a critical review of research on the use of glossing and its contribution to second language (L2) vocabulary acquisition. Discussion topics include the complexity of estimating the effectiveness of glossing relative to reading non-glossed texts, the quest for optimal implementations of glossing, issues of ecological validity, and ambiguity around the nature of vocabulary learning from glosses. The general conclusion is that, despite the substantial number of research studies on this subject, many questions remain to which only tentative and provisional answers are currently available. This is partly owing to the wide diversity in research designs across studies and the lack of transparency of many research reports. Suggestions are made for further research on glossing with a view to enabling future systematic reviews to produce more nuanced answers and more informed recommendations for the design of L2 reading materials.

The effect of textual glosses on L2 vocabulary acquisition: A meta-analysis

2021 ◽  
pp. 136216882110115
Author(s):  
Chao Zhang ◽  
Rong Ma
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Vocabulary Acquisition ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Medium Effect ◽  
Moderator Variable ◽  
L2 Reading ◽  
Definite Effect ◽  
Comprehensive Search ◽  
L2 Vocabulary

Despite the growing interest in incorporating textual glosses into second language (L2) reading in hypermedia and paper media, no agreements have been reached as to whether and what extent a textual gloss facilitates L2 learners’ vocabulary acquisition in hypermedia and paper media. The present study meta-analysed the overall effects of textual glosses and different glossing types (i.e. language, location, and mode) on L2 vocabulary acquisition, as well as the moderation effects on the variability of L2 vocabulary acquisition effect sizes. Based on a comprehensive search, 20 studies involving 2,291 participants that have quantitatively documented the changes of L2 vocabulary gains through a pre-and-post textual glosses design were identified and coded in order to retrieve moderator variables. The results show the following: (1) textual glossing has a medium effect on L2 vocabulary acquisition; (2) the effect of textual glosses on L2 vocabulary acquisition persists over time; (3) glossing location and glossing mode significantly impact the effect of textual glosses on L2 vocabulary acquisition but glossing language has no definite effect; and (4) outcome measure is the only moderator variable among the three influencing factors on vocabulary acquisition. These results are further discussed with reference to existing studies and theory of second language acquisition.

scholarly journals Context, word, and student predictors in second language vocabulary learning

2018 ◽  
Vol 40 (1) ◽  
pp. 137-166 ◽  
Author(s):  
EVELIEN MULDER ◽  
MARCO VAN DE VEN ◽  
ELIANE SEGERS ◽  
LUDO VERHOEVEN
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Learning Outcomes ◽  
Vocabulary Learning ◽  
Vocabulary Knowledge ◽  
Levenshtein Distance ◽  
Context Word ◽  
Learning Gain ◽  
English Sentence ◽  
Contextual Support ◽  
L2 Vocabulary

ABSTRACTWe examined to what extent the variation in vocabulary learning outcomes (vocabulary knowledge, learning gain, and rate of forgetting) in English as a second language (L2) in context can be predicted from semantic contextual support, word characteristics (cognate status, Levenshtein distance, word frequency, and word length), and student characteristics (prior vocabulary knowledge, reading ability, and exposure to English) in 197 Dutch adolescents. Students were taught cognates, false friends, and control words through judging sentences with varying degrees of semantic contextual support using a pretest/posttest between subjects design. Participants were presented with an English target word and its Dutch translation, followed by an English sentence. They were instructed to judge the plausibility of the sentence. Mixed-efffects models indicated that learning gains were higher for sentences with more semantic contextual support and in students with stronger reading comprehension skills. We were the first to show that Levenshtein distance is an important predictor for L2 vocabulary learning outcomes. Furthermore, more accurate as well as faster learning task performance lead to higher learning outcomes. It can thus be concluded that L2 study materials containing semantically supportive contexts and that focus on words with little L1-L2 overlap are most effective for L2 vocabulary learning.

A Review of CALL and L2 Reading

2011 ◽  
Vol 1 (4) ◽  
pp. 49-58 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lance R. Askildson
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Reading Comprehension ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Vocabulary Acquisition ◽  
Second Language Reading ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Computer Assisted Language Learning ◽  
L2 Reading ◽  
Self Study ◽  
Incidental Vocabulary

This paper provides a comprehensive review of the present state of second language reading research and computer-assisted glossing for reading comprehension and vocabulary acquisition. Although computer-assisted language learning, in general, and computer-assisted glossing, in particular, are often cited as facilitative pedagogical and self-study tools for second language reading development (Chun, 2001; Al-Seghayer, 2003; Ko, 2005; Blake, 2007; Stockwell, 2011), the state of computer-assisted glossing research presents a much less compelling and far more nuanced picture of efficacy and facilitation (Ariew & Ercetin, 2004; Bowles, 2004; Taylor, 2006, 2009; AbuSeileek, 2008; Sato & Sazuki, 2010). Research on glossing for reading comprehension presents a mixed collection of findings suggesting facilitation (Leffa, 1992; Lomicka, 1998; Ko, 2005) and inhibition (Hegelheimer, 1997; Plass et al., 2003; Akbulut, 2005; Sakar & Ercetin, 2005), although affective and attentional benefits of glossing for reading comprehension are widely acknowledged. On the other hand, research on incidental vocabulary acquisition as a result of glossing – and particularly multimedia glossing – suggests significant effect and a compelling rationale for ulitization of glossing tools in classroom and self-study contexts (Ariew & Ercetin, 2004; AbuSeileek, 2008; Taylor, 2009; Stockwell, 2011; Aljabri, 2011).

Indexical information, encoding difficulty, and second language vocabulary learning

2011 ◽  
Vol 32 (2) ◽  
pp. 417-434 ◽  
Author(s):  
MITCHELL S. SOMMERS ◽  
JOE BARCROFT
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Vocabulary Learning ◽  
Cognitive Effort ◽  
Information Encoding ◽  
Signal Noise ◽  
Acoustic Variability ◽  
Noise Ratio ◽  
The Difference ◽  
L2 Vocabulary ◽  
Effort Hypothesis

ABSTRACTResearch has demonstrated that second language (L2) vocabulary learning improves when target words are presented in acoustically varied compared with acoustically consistent formats. The present study investigated the extent to which this benefit of acoustic variability is a consequence of difficult encoding demands (cognitive effort hypothesis) versus increased representational quality. Experiment 1 compared L2 vocabulary learning for words produced in normal (easier encoding) or nasal (more difficult encoding) voice. Vocabulary learning was superior in the normal-voice condition, arguing against a simple cognitive effort hypothesis as the basis for improved L2 vocabulary learning with increased acoustic variability. Experiment 2 assessed the resistance of newly acquired L2 word forms to the effects of acoustic degradation. Participants heard six repetitions of each item in either a single-talker or multiple-talker condition. The robustness of the new word-form representations was assessed by measuring the accuracy and latency of L2 to first language (L1) translation as a function of the signal/noise ratio. At all four signal/noise ratios, accuracy and latency of L2 to L1 translation were significantly better for words learned in the multiple-talker as opposed to the single-talker condition. Of particular importance, the difference between single talkers and multiple talkers increased systematically as signal/noise ratio decreased. These findings suggest that the benefits of acoustic variability are a consequence of learners' ability to retain and use indexical information during the earliest stages of word learning and provide support for the representation quality hypothesis.

The Effects of Corpus Use on Second Language Vocabulary Learning: A Multilevel Meta-analysis

2018 ◽  
Vol 40 (5) ◽  
pp. 721-753 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hansol Lee ◽  
Mark Warschauer ◽  
Jang Ho Lee
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Vocabulary Learning ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Vocabulary Knowledge ◽  
Effect Sizes ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Different Dimensions ◽  
L2 Vocabulary

Abstract This study investigates the effects of corpus use on second language (L2) vocabulary learning as well as the influence of moderators on effectiveness. Based on 29 studies representing 38 unique samples, all of which met several criteria for inclusion (e.g. with control groups), we found an overall positive medium-sized effect of corpus use on L2 vocabulary learning for both short-term (77 posttest effect sizes; Hedges’ g = 0.74, SE = 0.09, p < .001) and long-term periods (34 follow-up effect sizes; Hedges’ g = 0.64, SE = 0.17, p < .001). Furthermore, large variation in adjusted mean effect sizes across moderators was revealed. Above all, for the different dimensions of L2 vocabulary knowledge, in-depth knowledge (i.e. referential meanings as well as syntactic features of vocabulary) was associated with a large effect size. Moreover, the results revealed that learners’ L2 proficiency and several features of corpus use (i.e. interaction types, corpus types, training, and duration) influence the magnitude of the effectiveness of corpus use in improving L2 vocabulary learning.

The effects of semantic and thematic clustering on the learning of second language vocabulary

1997 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 138-163 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas Tinkham
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Language Teaching ◽  
Vocabulary Learning ◽  
Psychological Research ◽  
Esl Students ◽  
Interference Theory ◽  
Empirical Justification ◽  
Semantic Clustering ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
L2 Vocabulary

ESL students are often presented much of their new English vocabulary preorganized for them in ‘semantic clusters’, sets of semantically and syntactically similar words, e.g., eye, nose, ear, mouth, chin. Although clustering of this sort facilitates the activities which serve current approaches to language teaching and would seem,at first glance, to facilitate vocabulary learning as well, little or no empirical justification is offered by researchers in support of its employment. In fact, research that might apply, psychological research generated by interference theory, would predict that such clustering of similar items impedes rather than enhances learning. On a more positive note, a more ‘thematic’ manner of organizing new L2 vocabulary is suggested by more recent psychological research which would predict that clusters like frog, green,hop, pond,slippery, croak would be more easily learnt than groups of unassociated words. With these predictions in mind,the reported research explored the effects upon L2 vocabulary learning of both ‘semantic’ and ‘thematic’ clustering. The results provide a wide range of evidence that suggests that semantic clustering does indeed serve as a hindrance while thematic clustering serves as a facilitator of new language vocabulary learning.

scholarly journals The Effect of Multiplayer Video Games on Incidental and Intentional L2 Vocabulary Learning: The Case of Among Us

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (12) ◽  
pp. 80
Author(s):  
José Ramón Calvo-Ferrer ◽  
Jose Belda-Medina
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Video Games ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Video Game ◽  
Vocabulary Learning ◽  
Lexical Development ◽  
Incidental Exposure ◽  
Unknown Words ◽  
L2 Vocabulary ◽  
Target Words

Vocabulary learning has been traditionally considered central to second language learning. It may take place either intentionally, by means of deliberate attempts to commit factual information to memory, or incidentally, as a consequence of other cognitive processes involving comprehension. Video games, which have been extensively employed in educational contexts to understand lexical development in foreign languages, foster both exposure to and the production of authentic and meaning-focused vocabulary. An empirical study was conducted to explore the effect of playing an online multiplayer social deduction game (i.e., a game in which players attempt to uncover each other’s hidden role) on incidental and intentional second language (L2) vocabulary learning. Secondary school pre-intermediate English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students (n = 54) took a vocabulary pre-test that identified eight unknown words likely to appear in the video game Among Us. Then, students were randomly assigned to different groups of players and to different learning conditions—within each group, half of the players were given a list of phrases containing such target words, which they were encouraged to meaningfully use in the game by means of written interaction. In doing so, students learnt some target words intentionally and provided contextualized incidental exposure to other players. They took a vocabulary test after two sessions of practice with the game to explore intentional and incidental L2 vocabulary learning gains. The pre- and post-tests suggested, among other results, that players using new L2 words in the game Among Us would retain more vocabulary than players only encountering them, that vocabulary intentionally input helped other users trigger incidental vocabulary learning, and that repetition had a positive effect on L2 vocabulary learning.

scholarly journals A Procedure for Determining Japanese Loanword Status for English Words

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 73-79
Author(s):  
David Allen ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Efficient Method ◽  
Vocabulary Learning ◽  
First Language ◽  
English Word ◽  
Frequency Data ◽  
Huge Number ◽  
L2 Vocabulary ◽  
Learning And Instruction

Japanese loanwords are mainly derived from English. These loanwords provide a considerable first-language (L1) resource that may assist in second-language (L2) vocabulary learning and instruction. However, given the huge number of loanwords, it is often difficult to determine whether an English word has a loanword equivalent and whether the loanword is likely to be widely known among the Japanese. This article demonstrates an efficient method of answering these two questions. The method employs corpus frequency data from the Balanced Corpus of Contemporary Written Japanese, from which the existence and frequency of loanwords in Japanese can be determined. Following the guidelines presented herein, researchers will be able to use data from the corpus themselves to check cognate frequency, thereby determining the cognate status of items used in research.

scholarly journals The Influence of Reading Purpose on Second Language: Incidental Vocabulary Acquisition

2019 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. 1
Author(s):  
Huang Shuke ◽  
Pan Cuiqiong
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Vocabulary Acquisition ◽  
Vocabulary Learning ◽  
Empirical Studies ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Incidental Vocabulary ◽  
Incidental Vocabulary Acquisition ◽  
At Home

<p>In recent years, the study of incidental vocabulary acquisition has received worldwide attention from scholars at home and abroad. Based on the relevant literature and some relevant empirical studies, this paper mainly explores the influence of reading purposes on the incidental acquisition of second language vocabulary in natural reading. It also put forward some constructive suggestions on how to use these factors to guide students' vocabulary learning.<strong><em></em></strong></p>

scholarly journals A study of L2 vocabulary acquisition under incidental and intentional conditions

2020 ◽  
pp. 113-140
Author(s):  
Sarah Sok ◽  
ZhaoHong Han
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Adult Learners ◽  
Vocabulary Acquisition ◽  
Incidental Learning ◽  
Word List ◽  
Vocabulary Knowledge ◽  
The Past ◽  
Incidental Condition ◽  
L2 Vocabulary

Vocabulary development is indisputably a vital aspect of second language acquisition. In spite of the abundant attention it has garnered over the past few decades, it remains unclear how adult learners fare with intentional and incidental ways of learning. The current study investigated the effects of intentional learning (via studying a word list), incidental learning (via reading), and combined intentional-andincidental learning (via studying a word list followed by reading) conditions on 30 adult learners’ second language vocabulary acquisition. Vocabulary acquisition was measured in terms of percentage gains as well as changes in the depth of vocabulary knowledge. Results showed that while both the intentional and incidental modes of learning led to vocabulary gains, the combined intentional-and-incidental condition resulted in significantly greater gains than either the intentional-only or the incidentalonly condition. No significant differences were found between the incidental-only and intentional-only conditions.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document