The Role of Quizlet Learning Tool in Learners' Lexical Retention: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

The integration of technologies into education, especially language learning, has become more prevalent in this information age. One of the widely used tools for supporting second language (L2) vocabulary acquisition is Quizlet. Despite its increased popularity, empirical research on the effectiveness of Quizlet in enhancing L2 learners' lexical retention is still limited. Furthermore, most works primarily used conventional statistical methods such as t-tests or ANOVA, which might generate errors of Type I and II. This study aims to fill in these gaps by examining the impact of Quizlet on the lexical gains of EFL students at a private institution in Vietnam. Fifty-nine undergraduates participated in the study and were separated into two groups. The control group (n=28) did not utilize Quizlet during the in-class lessons, while the experimental group (n=31) revised vocabulary using Quizlet on a weekly basis. During four weeks, the experimental group reviewed thirty-two target words, divided into four sets (one set including eight items). Each set was utilized for one week in class under the supervision of the teacher. The data from the pretest and posttest were analyzed using Generalized Linear Mixed Model to generate more reliable statistics. The results demonstrated that learners in the experimental group achieved significantly better scores than those in the control group. Therefore, it could be concluded that Quizlet should be implemented in the classroom as a review or practice activity on a regular basis.

The Impact of Mobile-Assisted Language Learning on Developing EFL Learners’ Vocabulary Knowledge

“…This illustrates that implementing Flashcard World app was more effective than traditional methods of teaching Benlaghrissi and Ouahidi vocabulary. This finding, however, aligns with previous studies on the pedagogical potential of MALL applications as effective learning tools in vocabulary [7,8,20,21,22,23,24].…”

“…These features make learning enjoyable while creating sets, adding cards to start studying, and practising. In this context, several studies through interviewing students reported that students who used MALL applications got better scores because MALL apps brought a fun and enjoyable learning atmosphere [24,26,27]. One more explanation could be the game-like activities of Flashcard World application.…”

“…Regarding vocabulary learning, the literature review confirmed the effectiveness of MALL implementation in supporting and enhancing vocabulary learning [7,8,20,21,22,23,24]. Chaikovska & Zbaravska [20] studied the feasibility of using the Quizlet application in EFL vocabulary development in higher education.…”

“…Therefore, the latest research on mobile-assisted language learning highlights that the implementation dramatically boosts vocabulary learning in EFL learners. However, the literature review analysis shows that most studies [7,20,22,24] investigated the two common apps: Kahoot! and Quizlet.…”