Relationship between second language vocabulary knowledge and vocabulary learning strategy use: a meta-analysis of correlational studies

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between vocabulary knowledge and vocabulary learning strategies (VLSs). We conducted a meta-analysis and integrated 159 effect sizes from 25 studies on the correlation between vocabulary knowledge and VLS use. These effect sizes were subjected to a quantitative analysis that measured the extent to which the correlation differed by type of vocabulary knowledge (size vs. depth), vocabulary measurement (size vs. level), and strategy (direct vs. indirect). The results show a small correlation between vocabulary knowledge and VLS use (r = 0.24). The relationship also differed by type of vocabulary knowledge (r = 0.03–0.35 for size; r = 0.15–0.40 for depth), vocabulary measure (r = 0.03–0.43 for size; r = 0.10–0.50 for level), and strategy type (r = 0.03–0.50). The discussion provides possible justifications for the meta-analysis results and recommendations for future VLS studies.