Enhancing English Language Vocabulary Learning among Indigenous Learners through Google Translate

Abstract

The emergence of new technologies has brought massive changes to teaching and learning processes. In recent years, mobile phones have evolved into effective teaching tools; when used practically, they could improve learning outcomes. The potential of mobile phones as a learning platform has led to a proliferation of research into their effectiveness. This paper aims to examine the effectiveness of the Google Translate mobile application (hereinafter "app") in improving indigenous learners' English language vocabulary. Fifteen Iban participants with low English language proficiency from rural schools were chosen through purposive sampling. The data were collected by comparing scores in the pre-test and post-test. In addition, the data were triangulated through structured interviews. Key findings indicated that almost all participants achieved high scores in the post-test. The interviews also revealed that all participants affirmed that Google Translate supports their English language proficiency, and only one participant was unsure of its effectiveness. Thus, the findings of this study imply that Google Translate could be an effective teaching tool to enhance learners' English language vocabulary. Future research could examine the effectiveness of the app in teaching vocabulary in different contexts.

The Effect of Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPG) Vocabulary on Students’ Willingness to Communicate: A Narrative Inquiry

“…To overcome this, they resorted to using translation applications or seeking assistance from friends who better understood English. This study is consistent with the findings of Kai & Hua (2021), who discovered that using Google Translate considerably increases native students' ability to understand the English language. They now better comprehend the meaning of words in an English context and can utilise the terminology more confidently.…”

Challenges and computer-aided reading strategies in vocabulary enhancement

“…In order to facilitate students' acquisition of vocabulary, effective vocabulary learning strategies should be implemented across various English classes (Ting & Tan, 2021). This notion is consistent with the conclusions of (Murro, 2023) strategies on the administration of learning modules, remote instructional support to bridge the gap in learning and intensify programs venturing in livelihood and entrepreneurial opportunities.…”

“…Vocabulary is considered a complex endeavor, mastery of which is difficult for most learners. Learners attempting to understand English vocabulary have challenges due to the intricacy of word forms, word choices, and diverse meanings (Ting & Tan, 2021). Acquiring knowledge of vocabulary can aid students in their English studies and aid them in learning the other language components.…”

Google Translate as English Learning Tool Assistance for Non-English Departments Students: Students’ Perception

“…In this stage, the researcher reviews the results the research by explaining various things during the research process, and then comparing with some previews studies that have been done before. Some researchers have found out that Google Translate can assist students in doing their tasks (Iftitah & Kuswardani, 2021;Kai & Hua, 2021;Tumbal et al, 2021;Tuzcu, 2021) making short essay, translating text book, writing story, making sentences or paragraph, etc. These findings prove the app provide helpful aids for students.…”