Using data-driven learning activities to improve lexical awareness in intermediate EFL learners
A large number of empirical studies have demonstrated the impact of lexical chunks on foreign language learning. However, reliable and efficient use of the lexical approach remains a problem. In this paper, a revised chunk teaching approach, based on Data-Driven Learning (DDL) activities and languag...
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
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Taylor & Francis Group
2021-01-01
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| Series: | Cogent Education |
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| Online Access: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2021.1996867 |
| _version_ | 1827887363044409344 |
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| author | Liya Xue |
| author_facet | Liya Xue |
| author_sort | Liya Xue |
| collection | DOAJ |
| description | A large number of empirical studies have demonstrated the impact of lexical chunks on foreign language learning. However, reliable and efficient use of the lexical approach remains a problem. In this paper, a revised chunk teaching approach, based on Data-Driven Learning (DDL) activities and language awareness theory, is proposed and tested. Taking an action research approach, the effects of DDL activities on increasing the lexical awareness of intermediate EFL learners were investigated. A 16-week course, using the teaching pattern of EIODI (Expose-Identify-Observe-Discover-Internalize) along with recognition and production tasks, was used to teach 158 intermediate EFL first-year university students. Quantitative questionnaire data from an in-class survey and a university course assessment survey revealed that the learners increased their awareness of lexical chunks and developed positive attitudes toward this approach. In addition, they reported a positive impact on their English proficiency; claims were supported by a statistical comparison of Finals for College English Course test scores for the two succeeding academic years. This research highlights the importance of increasing learners’ language awareness and using effective DDL activities. |
| first_indexed | 2024-03-12T20:18:07Z |
| format | Article |
| id | doaj.art-09a9073dd28e40cba4c2f2e94e13acec |
| institution | Directory Open Access Journal |
| issn | 2331-186X |
| language | English |
| last_indexed | 2024-03-12T20:18:07Z |
| publishDate | 2021-01-01 |
| publisher | Taylor & Francis Group |
| record_format | Article |
| series | Cogent Education |
| spelling | doaj.art-09a9073dd28e40cba4c2f2e94e13acec2023-08-02T01:08:27ZengTaylor & Francis GroupCogent Education2331-186X2021-01-018110.1080/2331186X.2021.19968671996867Using data-driven learning activities to improve lexical awareness in intermediate EFL learnersLiya Xue0Institute of Linguistics and Applied Linguistics in Foreign Languages of Zhejiang UniversityA large number of empirical studies have demonstrated the impact of lexical chunks on foreign language learning. However, reliable and efficient use of the lexical approach remains a problem. In this paper, a revised chunk teaching approach, based on Data-Driven Learning (DDL) activities and language awareness theory, is proposed and tested. Taking an action research approach, the effects of DDL activities on increasing the lexical awareness of intermediate EFL learners were investigated. A 16-week course, using the teaching pattern of EIODI (Expose-Identify-Observe-Discover-Internalize) along with recognition and production tasks, was used to teach 158 intermediate EFL first-year university students. Quantitative questionnaire data from an in-class survey and a university course assessment survey revealed that the learners increased their awareness of lexical chunks and developed positive attitudes toward this approach. In addition, they reported a positive impact on their English proficiency; claims were supported by a statistical comparison of Finals for College English Course test scores for the two succeeding academic years. This research highlights the importance of increasing learners’ language awareness and using effective DDL activities.http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2021.1996867lexical chunkslexical awarenessddl activitiesintermediate efl learners |
| spellingShingle | Liya Xue Using data-driven learning activities to improve lexical awareness in intermediate EFL learners Cogent Education lexical chunks lexical awareness ddl activities intermediate efl learners |
| title | Using data-driven learning activities to improve lexical awareness in intermediate EFL learners |
| title_full | Using data-driven learning activities to improve lexical awareness in intermediate EFL learners |
| title_fullStr | Using data-driven learning activities to improve lexical awareness in intermediate EFL learners |
| title_full_unstemmed | Using data-driven learning activities to improve lexical awareness in intermediate EFL learners |
| title_short | Using data-driven learning activities to improve lexical awareness in intermediate EFL learners |
| title_sort | using data driven learning activities to improve lexical awareness in intermediate efl learners |
| topic | lexical chunks lexical awareness ddl activities intermediate efl learners |
| url | http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2021.1996867 |
| work_keys_str_mv | AT liyaxue usingdatadrivenlearningactivitiestoimprovelexicalawarenessinintermediateefllearners |