Vocabulary Learning Strategies and their Contribution in ESL/EFL Or ELL Learning at M. Phil Level

Abstract

Vocabulary learning is the most challenging task for second language learning. Vocabulary is the most important part of any language. It is the building block of a language and is the first step in learning a language. For vocabulary learning, first we must learn about some vocabulary learning strategies (VLS). Vocabulary learning strategies (VLS) are a branch of language learning. It is a type of cognitive psychology because it includes mental exercise. We can say that these are a set of strategies for learning new words. These strategies improve phonology, grammar as well as their contextual knowledge of foreign and second language words or vocabulary. Vocabulary Learning Strategies vary according to different situations and are not equally effective. There are various factors that affect VLS. It includes the learner’s motivation, his learning attitude towards learning a language, his learning environment, and learner’s perception of reading material. VLS are also helpful to overcome the difficulties in vocabulary learning and in language learning speed.

Current study aims at examining the types of vocabulary learning strategies used by Pakistani MS. ESL learners. Target population of my study is foundation university students. To achieve the aims of this study, I choose qualitative research design that it is decided to take open ended interviews from 6 students at the faculty of English department. This study contains constructive paradigm and entails multiple realities. The main instrument for data analysis is research. Participants of the study are students and the instrument for data collection is a tape recorder. The current study will contribute to existing knowledge of VLSs and furthermore, it will help in enhancing vocabulary of the learner.