Computer-Assisted Synonymous Phrase Learning

Abstract

It is not uncommon to see lists of semantically equivalent phrases in pedagogical materials. However, empirical investigations of the effect of synonymous phrase learning on vocabulary development are rarely attempted. The current study promotes computer-assisted synonymous phrase learning by introducing PREFER, a corpus-based paraphrasing system. The organized information including synonymous phrases, Chinese translations, usage patterns, and example sentences would help EFL learners develop vocabulary knowledge in terms of form, meaning, and use. The performances of 49 EFL first-year college students were evaluated using a 15-set multi-select test. The results showed that students consulting PREFER made greater progress than those consulting existing online tools. The improvements of the less proficient students were especially significant, which was to be expected. More importantly, the analyses of learners' errors indicated that their learning difficulties primarily resulted from the lack of attention to word form and the function words (i.e., word form and use) while learning vocabulary.

Factors Influencing the Construction of Second Language Learner Identity in International Chinese Education

“…The formation and transformation of social identity can impact how learners perceive themselves. [3] Research suggests that social identity can undergo changes during the process of learning Chinese. Learners may gradually develop a sense of identification with Chinese culture and society while studying Chinese.…”

Influential Factors Shaping the Formation of Second Language Learner Identity in the Context of International Chinese Education

“…Social identity encompasses learners' sense of belonging and identification with social groups, including cultural groups, nations, religions, and more. The formation and transformation of social identity can impact how learners perceive themselves [3].…”

“…Learners may gradually develop a sense of identification with Chinese culture and society while studying Chinese. They may begin to see themselves as part of the community of Chinese language users, influencing their identity construction [3]. This transformation in social identity leads to the development of a more diverse and cross-cultural identity for learners.…”

The Effects of Communicative Framework Instruction Using Computer-Assisted Pronunciation Training (CAPT) on English Pronunciation Ability of Chinese Undergraduate Students

“…Three approaches to pronunciation instruction are generally mentioned, intuitiveimitative approach, the analytic-linguistic approach and the integrative approach (Celce-Murcia, 1996;Chen, 2007). In the intuitive-imitative approach, with no explicit instruction, learners imitate the sounds and rhythms of the target language after listening the target language.…”

“…The students stated that the instruction developed their self-confidence, created engaging learning environments (Chen, 2007), provided more opportunities for learning inside and outside classroom (Lear, 2014), built cooperative learning environments (Pennington, 1999), and enhanced learner autonomy (Neri, 2002).…”