1.2 Research objectives The goal of this research is to evaluate the ability of first-year English major- students to self-study English vocabulary using online tools.. Specifically, the
INTRODUCTION
Background of the research
Self-study is a crucial skill for students, particularly for English majors, as it marks a significant transition from high school to university (Nghia & Trang, 2023) In this new educational environment, students must take initiative in managing their time and creating effective study plans without close guidance Mastering self-study enables students to complete assignments punctually and prepares them for advanced studies in their field Furthermore, it allows access to a variety of resources beyond traditional textbooks, such as scientific articles and online courses, enhancing their professional knowledge (Holdefer, 2014).
Especially in the digital age, technology develops day by day (Bulman & Fanlie,
Developing English skills through online tools is essential, as these resources enable students to access a wide range of study materials, including lectures, practice exercises, videos, e-books, and scientific articles Additionally, applications like Duolingo and Elsa Speak help enhance listening and speaking skills While many of these applications are convenient, some require payment, categorizing them into different groups.
Based on TAM (Technology Acceptance Model) and TESOL Teclmology Standards, online tools can be grouped into 2 groups as follows:
The TAM group identifies Duolingo, Coursera, Khan Academy, and Edmodo as the most popular educational tools today These applications share key features such as user-friendly interfaces and a wide range of high-quality courses, including lectures and videos that support students in their self-study efforts.
The TESOL group establishes Technology Standards to guide the effective integration of technology in English language teaching These standards assist educators in enhancing student engagement and promoting self-study skills Popular applications such as Moodie, a learning management system, facilitate online course design and foster interaction between teachers and students Google Classroom, a free educational tool, aids in managing online classes, organizing learning materials, and providing feedback on assignments Additionally, Padlet serves as an interactive whiteboard that encourages creative content sharing among students and teachers While each tool targets different skills, they collectively emphasize vocabulary development.
A study reveals that university freshmen are accustomed to passive learning methods from high school, relying heavily on teacher instructions and strict oversight They struggle with time management and often get sidetracked by extracurricular activities, such as clubs and part-time jobs (Macan & Phillips, 1900) Additionally, these students face challenges in document research and evaluation, often feeling discouraged when they encounter difficulties due to a lack of guidance from their teachers.
The Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training’s Circular 17/2021 emphasizes that graduates must develop knowledge, skills, autonomy, responsibility, and competence upon completing their training programs Students will achieve the necessary professional qualifications as outlined by the Vietnam National credentials framework Self-study is crucial for both academic success and personal growth, enabling students to recognize their strengths, weaknesses, and interests while fostering independent problem-solving skills By engaging in information search and processing, students enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, applicable in various life situations Additionally, vocabulary acquisition is vital for learning English, serving as the foundation for language comprehension and usage Students are encouraged to utilize online tools for vocabulary enhancement, promoting autonomy in their learning journey.
Research objectives
This research aims to assess first-year English major students' ability to self-study vocabulary using online tools A survey will evaluate their self-study habits and the effectiveness of these tools, focusing on students' autonomy and self-management in learning English vocabulary The study will measure access to and usage of online resources, analyze their impact on vocabulary expansion, and identify challenges students face during self-study Based on the findings, the research will propose improvement measures and support strategies to enhance students' vocabulary self-study through online tools.
Research questions
This research aims to gather insights from first-year English major students at Nguyen Tat Thanh University regarding their use of online tools for vocabulary learning Specifically, it seeks to identify which digital resources are favored by these students to enhance their vocabulary acquisition.
2 How do their learning preferences affect their interaction with online vocabulary learning tools when studying independently?
Significance of the problem
This research study aims to benefit Nguyen Tat Thanh University and first-year English students by enhancing their understanding of self-study and self-development It emphasizes the effective use of internet resources for learning activities, particularly in fostering vocabulary growth during the English learning process.
• Theoretically, the study higlilights the significance of using online tools to develop English vocabulary on then own and that promote learner’s autonomy.
Research studies will enable students at Nguyen Tat Thanh University to grasp the significance of self-study and enhance their self-directed learning skills by utilizing technological tools effectively.
Scope of the study
This study investigates the independent study skills of English-majored freshmen at Nguyen Tat Thanh University, specifically through the utilization of online vocabulary-learning tools Data was gathered from first-year English students at the university, where the researcher previously engaged in a Master’s program in English language studies.
Organization of the study
Apart from the references and the appendices, the thesis comprised introduction, literature review, research methodology, results and discussion, conclusion and recommendation.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Definition of tenns
This study article defines key terms to ensure a clear understanding for readers, particularly focusing on Freslunan English majors at Nguyen Tat Thanh University, who are in the early stages of their language program Self-study is highlighted as a flexible approach that allows students to independently research and learn, managing their own time and progress A strong grasp of English vocabulary, which encompasses the words and phrases of the language, is essential for developing language skills Additionally, online tools, including vocabulary learning applications and educational websites, play a crucial role in supporting students' self-study efforts in mastering English vocabulary.
Vocabulary acquisition is crucial for mastering a language, as it underpins essential skills like reading, listening, writing, and speaking By employing various self-study techniques, students can enhance their autonomy and effectively tackle their weaknesses in tasks such as reading English texts, all while minimizing the fear of judgment from others Consequently, this approach fosters greater enjoyment in their work, boosts motivation to learn, and encourages engagement with diverse methods of learning English.
To enhance vocabulary effectively, learners must go beyond memorizing individual words; they should also focus on constructing phrases and sentences in various contexts Engaging in real-life applications, such as writing paragraphs, essays, or participating in conversation exercises, as well as daily communication and translation activities, will aid learners in retaining words longer and gaining a deeper understanding of their meanings and usage.
Teachers play a crucial role in helping students expand their vocabulary by encouraging reading, watching videos, and utilizing online applications These methods not only enhance vocabulary acquisition but also allow learners to reinforce their understanding of new and old words Additionally, this approach provides insights into different cultures and equips students with the skills to use vocabulary more accurately in various contexts.
Self-assessment skills are crucial for effective learning, alongside self-study and vocabulary development Regular practice and review of previous knowledge help learners reinforce their understanding, gauge their proficiency, and select appropriate lessons This structured approach to learning enhances overall results by allowing for better time management and targeted study.
2.1.2 Vocabulary Acquisition and Language Learning
Building a robust vocabulary is essential for mastering a second language, but it demands time, effort, and patience Clear instructions and support from teachers significantly ease the learning process, helping students understand word usage in context This guidance enables learners to enhance their speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills, ultimately boosting their confidence in real-life communication.
To effectively develop vocabulary, learners should be motivated to practice regularly through daily activities Establishing habits such as reading books, watching English TV programs, and engaging in conversations with friends can facilitate natural language acquisition Additionally, maintaining a positive mindset and perseverance in the learning process is crucial, as each new word learned brings learners closer to their goal of using a second language more fluently and effortlessly.
Research by Oxford (1990) emphasizes the importance of methodical learning strategies tailored to individual preferences and goals By selecting appropriate strategies, students can enhance their vocabulary acquisition and metacognitive awareness Online vocabulary study not only introduces new words but also incorporates memory techniques, such as mnemonic devices, to aid in recalling complex vocabulary through familiar associations This approach integrates various strategies for effective language learning and retention Additionally, contextual guessing allows students to deduce the meanings of unfamiliar words, fostering active reading and enhancing critical thinking skills.
2.1.4 Effect of Usage Frequency on Vocabulary Achievement
Repetitive practice of high-frequency vocabulary significantly enhances vocabulary acquisition Research by Laufer and Nation (1995) and Cobb and Laufer (2021) indicates that focusing on these commonly used words not only aids in retention but also facilitates overall vocabulary expansion Regular study and usage of vocabulary reinforce specific terms while establishing a strong foundation for learning new words As learners build a more extensive vocabulary, they find it easier to understand and utilize additional vocabulary, thereby improving their overall English language skills, particularly for students.
Targeting high-frequency vocabulary is essential in online education to improve vocabulary performance By providing students with multiple opportunities to engage with these terms through various online activities—such as exercises, games, and multimedia tools—teachers can effectively enhance vocabulary knowledge This approach fosters progressive learning and increases the effectiveness of vocabulary acquisition in an online environment.
Self-study is an essential skill for students, particularly for those studying English at Nguyen Tat Thanh University To meet the Ministry of Education's output standards, students must embrace autonomy in their learning, taking responsibility for their educational journey without excessive reliance on teachers While educators provide guidance and support, the quality of learning ultimately depends on the students themselves Nguyen Tat Thanh University addresses the importance of self-study by offering workshops that enhance students' learning spirit and equip them with necessary skills For instance, seminars like "Building Questionnaires in Scientific Research Papers through SPSS Software" and workshops such as "Global Business Presentation" foster independence and boost students' confidence in communication, leading to improved learning outcomes and English proficiency.
Vocabulary Learning and Technology
Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) provides an engaging multimedia environment that enhances vocabulary acquisition Through interactive online activities such as games and quizzes, CALL makes learning enjoyable and visually stimulating, which aids in language comprehension Additionally, personalized online flashcards can further improve vocabulary retention by catering to individual student needs and learning styles.
CALL offers a variety of engaging online vocabulary-learning activities, including games, quizzes, multimedia presentations, and virtual flashcards These interactive tools make vocabulary study enjoyable and promote experiential learning Multimedia presentations provide visually stimulating resources that enhance students' understanding of language in different contexts Virtual flashcards allow learners to create personalized sets tailored to their individual needs and goals, facilitating effective vocabulary review By organizing vocabulary by topic and incorporating images, sounds, and formatted text, flashcards stimulate multiple senses, thereby improving memorization and retention.
Flashcards offer the convenience of studying anytime and anywhere, enabling learners to utilize their free moments for review They can be used during commutes, on public transport, or in between classes Additionally, flashcard apps like Quizlet and Anki include reminder features that aid in reinforcing knowledge and preventing the forgetfulness of vocabulary.
Flashcards can be customized and shared with friends or study groups, fostering a collaborative learning environment This sharing of flashcards promotes knowledge exchange among students, enhances collaboration, and facilitates learning from peers As a result, it boosts motivation and broadens access to new vocabulary and effective learning strategies.
Vocabulary study in the past used mostly printed materials, but today students have vast resources on the internet to help them improve their English skills Yip and Kwan
Learners, particularly adults, often find vocabulary study from textbooks to be tedious (2006) While teachers appreciate the potential of experimental online games, research by Yip and Kwan emphasizes the importance of using these games consistently and regularly Recent studies indicate that systematic use of online games can significantly enhance learners' retention and automaticity in vocabulary usage By creating a fun and educational learning environment, students become more comfortable and engaged, which boosts their long-term commitment to language learning.
Online learning platforms can effectively monitor and analyze students' progress, enabling both teachers and learners to understand the vocabulary being acquired, track advancement, and identify areas needing improvement Consistent use of vocabulary learning games, combined with clear objectives, enhances learning outcomes and accelerates progress for students.
2.3 Technology7 Acceptance Model (TAM) and TESOL Technology7 Standards
The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), developed by Davis in 1989, is based on the Theory of Reasoned Action and focuses on users' expectations and acceptance of technology With rapid technological advancements, online tools have become vital for English language learning, offering resources such as lectures, videos, practice exercises, e-books, and scientific articles Popular applications like Duolingo, ELSA Speak, and platforms such as Coursera and Khan Academy provide accessible and user-friendly content, with some available for free and others requiring payment The TESOL Technology Standards guide teachers in integrating technology into their classrooms and mentoring students in self-study techniques Notable technology applications include Moodle for course interaction, Google Classroom for managing online classes, and Padlet for collaborative document sharing.
The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) includes key components that influence user acceptance of online tools Perceived Usefulness (PU) reflects how individuals assess the effectiveness of a tool in enhancing their academic or work performance Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU) indicates the level of difficulty associated with using the tool, where a positive perception of ease can boost technology acceptance Attitude Toward Using (ATU) encompasses users' positive or negative feelings about the tool, shaped by its perceived ease of use and its impact on their academic and personal lives, as exemplified by the user-friendly nature of ChatGPT Additionally, research by Mutammimah et al (2024) highlights that a user's intention to adopt a tool is influenced by its efficacy, ease of use, and the outcomes it delivers.
In general, the TAM model plays an important role in helping to better understand the factors influencing students’ acceptance and use of technology.
Figure 1 TAM and TESOL Standards for Online Vocabulary Tools
2.4 Learner Autonomy, Motivation, Self-Directed Learning and Language
In language learning, motivation is crucial for achieving success, alongside knowledge acquisition While external factors like teachers, the learning environment, and resources play a significant role, intrinsic motivation is equally important Students should strive for self-improvement, aiming for more than just passing exams and fulfilling teacher expectations Ultimately, strong academic results not only demonstrate a learner's knowledge but also reflect their personal development journey and attitude towards learning.
Motivation plays a crucial role in the learning process by helping learners stay focused and navigate challenges To achieve their learning objectives, students must have a clear understanding of their goals Identifying the importance of vocabulary development is essential for effective English language learning.
To maintain long-term learning capacity, it is essential to develop a clear learning plan that breaks down large goals into manageable steps Additionally, learners must cultivate a strong belief in their abilities to achieve improved results.
Establishing a self-study process and automatic assessment capabilities is crucial for effective learning Regular re-testing allows learners to evaluate their knowledge and progress Setting clear goals is essential for continuing education Maintaining a positive learning attitude not only leads to better results but also lays a strong foundation for future growth.
2.4.2 Self-Directed Learning in Language Acquisition
Self-studying a new language requires learners to take initiative in exploring effective methods for continued learning To establish a strong linguistic foundation, it is essential for each learner to develop habits that facilitate automatic documentation of study time and effective planning.
In a developed society, online tools and devices significantly enhance learners' abilities, offering resources like language learning software, vocabulary practice applications, and grammar checkers Notable examples include Duolingo, Quizlet, TED Talks, and Grammarly, which collectively support effective learning and skill development.
Learning vocabulary poses significant challenges for foreign language learners, particularly as they transition from secondary to university education While students often rely on teachers for vocabulary development in earlier stages, university learners must adopt a more autonomous approach to achieve better outcomes This study investigates the importance of learner autonomy in English vocabulary acquisition, highlighting the need for students to take initiative in their learning It underscores the role of teachers not just as knowledge providers, but as guides who encourage students to explore effective learning strategies By facilitating active learning, allowing goal-setting, and promoting self-evaluation, teachers can enhance learner autonomy Research indicates that self-study not only improves vocabulary retention but also fosters essential self-learning skills, enabling students to adapt and thrive in modern educational and professional settings.
Learner Autonomy, Motivation, Self-Directed Learning and Language Acquisition
Motivation is essential for students in the language learning process, as it drives them to achieve better results While external factors like teachers, the learning environment, and resources play a significant role, intrinsic motivation is equally important Students should cultivate a mindset focused on self-improvement and personal development, aiming for more than just passing exams Ultimately, strong academic performance reflects not only knowledge but also the learner's journey and attitude towards education.
Motivation plays a crucial role in the learning process by helping learners stay focused and navigate challenges To achieve their learning objectives, students must have a clear understanding of their goals This clarity is especially important when it comes to recognizing the necessity of vocabulary development in learning English.
To maintain long-term learning capacity, it is essential to develop a clear learning plan that breaks down large goals into manageable steps Additionally, learners must cultivate a strong belief in their abilities to achieve improved results.
Establishing a self-study process and automatic assessment capabilities is crucial for effective learning Regular re-testing allows learners to evaluate their knowledge and progress Setting clear goals is essential for continuing education Maintaining a positive learning attitude not only leads to better results but also lays a strong foundation for future growth.
2.4.2 Self-Directed Learning in Language Acquisition
Self-studying a new language requires learners to take initiative in exploring effective methods for continued learning To establish a strong linguistic foundation, it is essential for each learner to develop habits that include tracking study time and creating structured study plans.
In a developed society, online tools and devices significantly enhance learners' abilities, offering resources like language learning software, vocabulary practice applications, and grammar checkers Notable examples include Duolingo, Quizlet, TED Talks, and Grammarly, which collectively support effective learning and skill development.
Learning vocabulary poses significant challenges for foreign language learners, particularly as they transition from secondary education to university While students often rely on teachers for vocabulary development in earlier stages, university learners must cultivate independence and adopt personalized learning strategies for better outcomes This study investigates the autonomy of students in learning English vocabulary, highlighting its critical role in the learning process It underscores the necessity for teachers to foster learner autonomy by guiding students in recognizing their roles and responsibilities Teachers should act as facilitators, providing active learning opportunities, allowing goal-setting, and supporting self-evaluation Research indicates that self-directed study not only enhances vocabulary acquisition but also equips students with essential self-learning skills, enabling them to adapt and thrive in modern educational and professional settings.
Developing self-study skills is crucial for all students, particularly English majors, as they transition from high school to university, where structured guidance from teachers diminishes (Nghia & Trang, 2023) This shift necessitates that students create their own study schedules, manage their time effectively, and employ independent study techniques to meet assignment deadlines By taking charge of their learning, students learn to access various resources, including online courses, apps, and academic articles, which enhance their understanding beyond course materials This proactive search for resources not only aids in completing assignments but also enriches their professional knowledge (Holdefer, 2014).
Self-study skills are essential for English language students at Nguyen Tat Thanh University By fostering autonomy and reducing dependence on teachers, students can meet the Ministry of Education's standards and take responsibility for their own learning.
Increasing independence in vocabulary self-study enhances learners' time management skills and fosters internal motivation, reducing reliance on others This approach allows individuals to select learning methods and materials that align with their personal needs while also facilitating the evaluation of their unique learning styles However, self-study presents challenges, particularly for beginners who may struggle with where to start and lack the skills to create a structured learning plan, necessitating guidance from teachers Additionally, learners may experience fluctuations in motivation over the long term, making it essential to establish clear goals to maintain focus and prevent discouragement Lastly, self-assessment can be challenging, as learners often find it difficult to identify and correct their mistakes without external feedback or suggestions.
At Nguyen Tat Thanh University, students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning, as independent study can significantly improve academic performance and life skills To support this, the university has organized workshops aimed at enhancing essential skills for academic success Notable seminars include one focused on "Creating questionnaires for scientific research papers with SPSS software" and another addressing communication skills through "Global Business Presentations."
Previous Studies on Online Vocabulary Tools
2.5.1 Previous studies ill the world
Numerous global studies have explored the effectiveness of online tools in language learning, particularly in vocabulary acquisition and promoting learner autonomy Applications like Duolingo, Memrise, and Quizlet incorporate automatic testing features through games and mini-tests, facilitating faster vocabulary memorization and more accurate usage These tools offer a flexible learning environment, allowing access to materials anytime and anywhere, while also employing interactive methods that boost learners' interest and motivation.
Al-Jarf (2007) demonstrates the effectiveness of online methods in enhancing vocabulary for university students learning English, highlighting the crucial role of technology in supporting vocabulary acquisition and communicative proficiency The research revealed significant improvements in vocabulary scores among first-year students, indicating that technology-supported learning environments outside the classroom contribute to overall learning efficiency Additionally, technology fosters interaction through online activities like discussion forums and learning games, creating an engaging learning atmosphere Teachers can leverage these tools to tailor exercises for different groups, enhancing the personalization of the learning experience Furthermore, modern applications simulate real-life contexts, enabling students to not only memorize vocabulary but also apply it in daily communication The flexibility of technology allows students to self-pace their learning, optimizing outcomes, especially for those with busy schedules Basoglu and Akdemir (2010) emphasize that vocabulary is fundamental to learning a foreign language, and the widespread use of mobile devices facilitates access to diverse information sources, enriching students' language learning experiences By utilizing resources like Google Scholar and YouTube, learners can intelligently engage with English vocabulary, ensuring consistent practice and improvement.
Dizon (2016) demonstrated that the Quizlet app significantly enhances English vocabulary learning, resulting in improved test scores and high student satisfaction (over 4 on a 5-point Likert scale), thereby supporting its use in EFL classrooms Similarly, Raw and Ismail (2021) highlighted the benefits of online tools for developing multiple language skills through interactive and diverse resources Gopalan et al (2017) examined the importance of motivation in learning, identifying that both external rewards, such as stickers and certificates, and internal motivators, like personal interest and self-development, are crucial for effective learning.
Intrinsic motivation plays a crucial role in academic success, as highlighted by research in 2016 Additionally, studies by Bonilla et al (2021) indicate that language learning outside the classroom is less effective when students depend solely on informal methods, such as social networks, rather than engaging in structured learning approaches.
Raw and Ismail (2021) emphasize the importance of continuously updating knowledge about online tools, as technology evolves daily and significantly enhances vocabulary learning outcomes for EFL students These tools foster a flexible learning environment, boost self-study capabilities, and help individuals stay current with social trends They encompass a variety of interactive materials and games that support students in improving their skills rapidly while practicing multiple competencies simultaneously However, research indicates that language learning outcomes from classroom instruction and external activities, such as using social networks for language practice, yield lower results This highlights the critical relationship between dedicated foreign language learning time and extracurricular activities.
Recent studies in Vietnam have increasingly explored the use of technological tools to enhance vocabulary learning Nguyen et al (2022) examined Quizlet's role in English language teaching, revealing that its interactive features, such as flashcards and online games, promote learner autonomy by enabling students to control their own pace and learning strategies This engagement leads to a more enjoyable and effective learning experience Additionally, Nguyen (2016) emphasized the significance of learner autonomy in vocabulary acquisition among English majors, showing that students perform better when encouraged to self-study and utilize appropriate learning methods The research underscores the critical role of independent study skills, including time management and self-assessment, in achieving long-term academic success.
Nguyen et al (2022) explored the effectiveness of the Quizlet app in enhancing English language teaching by assessing students' learning autonomy in vocabulary acquisition The study revealed that students actively engaged with Quizlet's interactive features, such as flashcards, online games, and tests, which fostered a greater sense of autonomy in their learning These engaging tools not only motivated students more than traditional methods but also allowed them to learn at their own pace and manage their time effectively Furthermore, Quizlet's ability to track learning progress through detailed statistics, such as the number of words learned and test accuracy, supports the development of self-study skills The app accommodates various learning styles, enabling visual learners to utilize illustrated flashcards and auditory learners to benefit from audio recordings, ultimately enhancing learning efficiency and making the process enjoyable.
Quizlet fosters student collaboration by enabling the sharing of flashcard decks and participation in online classes, creating a community learning environment This platform allows students to exchange knowledge, support one another, and learn from their peers' experiences, ultimately enhancing vocabulary and developing essential communication and teamwork skills.
Research at Thai Nguyen University emphasizes the importance of learner autonomy in vocabulary acquisition among English majors Autonomy encompasses effective time management, self-assessment, and the adaptation of learning strategies to meet individual needs The findings indicate that students perform better when they receive encouragement and support for independent study Cultivating self-study habits and choosing suitable learning methods enhance vocabulary learning while also promoting essential skills like time management and lifelong learning.
The rapid advancement of information technology has significantly transformed education, particularly higher education, due to the rise of the internet and innovative online teaching methods As technology evolves, students must stay abreast of global trends and continuously update their skills According to Doan (2022), the ongoing development of society necessitates that students engage in lifelong learning and exploration of new knowledge Teachers, too, must commit to self-study to effectively guide their students, as they cannot always be present to oversee their learning Consequently, while students are encouraged to embrace independence, they still require teachers' guidance to navigate their educational journeys effectively.
Gap of research
Nguyen and Nguyen (2021) found that using Quizlet in English teaching positively impacts student autonomy in vocabulary learning However, the study's reliance solely on survey methods may limit data diversity, as it lacks direct classroom observations to evaluate student learning with Quizlet Additionally, the representativeness of results could be affected by the characteristics of the learner group; a small or specialized sample may not reflect broader teaching contexts Furthermore, the research would benefit from comparisons with other vocabulary learning methods or technologies to assess whether Quizlet offers significant advantages over traditional approaches.
Nguyen (2016) emphasizes the significance of learner autonomy in vocabulary acquisition, highlighting the impact of games and self-learning However, the study may have limitations in its research methods, particularly in data collection, as relying solely on methodological surveys can lead to a lack of diversity and affect outcomes To enhance the measurement of learner autonomy, additional methods such as direct observation or in-depth interviews could be beneficial Furthermore, the absence of comparisons between different teaching methods may diminish the quality of the findings Despite these challenges, the research underscores the importance of implementing specific strategies to enhance students' autonomy in vocabulary learning, suggesting that a variety of practical teaching methods can be effective.
Effective communication in language learning hinges on understanding spoken messages, as highlighted by Goddard and Wierzbicka (2008) This comprehension is essential for meaningful interactions and appropriate responses Listening serves as a primary method for learners to acquire vocabulary, grammar, and language patterns Exposure to native or proficient speakers provides insights into authentic language use, intonation, and pronunciation, enhancing learners' skills (Vandergrift, 2004) Strong listening comprehension allows individuals to accurately interpret spoken information, whether from lectures, presentations, or conversations, enabling them to grasp key ideas and nuances in communication.
Web-based tools significantly enhance independent learning and skill development through interactive methods, often surpassing traditional and informal approaches Research indicates that students favor these tools over stand-alone applications due to their accessibility, user-friendliness, efficiency, and variety of resources However, there is a lack of investigation into how learning preferences affect the selection of these tools This highlights the necessity to explore the impact of students' technological preferences and self-directed learning on their choice of web-based tools This paper aims to examine the relationship between students' learning preferences and their selection of tools for vocabulary enhancement.
Theoretical Framework
This study employs the Self-Efficacy Theory (Bandura, 1977) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Davis, 1989) as its theoretical framework The Self-Efficacy Theory emphasizes the importance of individuals' beliefs in their capabilities to accomplish specific tasks, which is crucial for understanding how students' confidence in learning vocabulary independently affects their motivation to utilize online tools By assessing students' self-efficacy, the research aims to identify effective strategies to bolster their belief in their learning autonomy and success Additionally, the Technology Acceptance Model is relevant for examining how students' perceptions of the usefulness and ease of use of online vocabulary tools impact their adoption and continued usage Integrating TAM enables the study to analyze the technological factors that facilitate or impede independent study, aligning with the emphasis on online resources.
Students' Beliefs in Learning Autonomy
Figure 2 Framework for vocabulary learning with online tools
This study employs the Self-Efficacy Theory (Bandura, 1977) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Davis, 1989) to create an interdisciplinary theoretical framework By integrating these theories, the research explores the cognitive, motivational, and technological aspects of vocabulary learning It aims to provide insights into how first-year English majors at Nguyen Tat Thanh University utilize online tools to improve their vocabulary learning autonomy.
Explicit learning in linguistics, as noted by Schmidt (1990), requires conscious awareness and intentional effort to grasp linguistic rules and patterns In vocabulary acquisition, discursive learning theory emphasizes the advantages of direct instruction that includes clear explanations of vocabulary words, their meanings, usage, and contexts Consequently, offering comprehensive information and expanding vocabulary enables learners to understand and apply words effectively across various contexts.
Direct instruction and clear explanations are essential for helping learners establish a strong vocabulary foundation, which in turn supports further vocabulary expansion and application Additionally, effective communication fosters spontaneity and initiative in using new words, enhancing both the learner's communication skills and language comprehension.
METHODOLOGY
Participants and Research Settings
This study involved 55 undergraduate students majoring in English at Nguyen Tat Thanh University, specifically targeting freshmen interested in enhancing their English vocabulary using online tools, without restrictions on age or gender To collect quantitative data, participants responded to a 20-question survey organized into three clusters, which was distributed via Google Forms.
A structured interview was conducted with 6 out of 55 participants to reach response saturation All participants answered the same questions in a consistent order, while interviewers used inductive probing to draw out essential responses The structured guide facilitated thorough data collection within a clearly defined framework.
Research design
The study utilized a mixed-methods design, integrating quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to explore students' utilization of online vocabulary tools and the factors affecting their decisions The survey offered statistical data, while in-depth interviews provided valuable perspectives, enhancing the quantitative results This combined approach facilitated a thorough understanding of the research topic.
Research Instruments
The survey utilized a Google Form and comprised five sections aligned with three distinct clusters It featured a total of 20 questions, with Cluster 1 specifically addressing students' perceptions of learning.
The study explored the use of online tools for vocabulary self-study among students, focusing on their selection and impact Cluster 2 investigated how students utilize these tools, while Cluster 3 examined the effects of their choices To ensure the reliability of the questionnaire, SPSS software was employed for data analysis after the surveys were conducted, and Excel was utilized to generate numerical tables and charts.
The reliability of the questionnaire was assessed using SPSS Statistics 20 software, which also facilitated data analysis following the completion of the surveys Additionally, Excel was utilized to generate numerical tables and charts for better data visualization.
An AI tool, the Random Forest Regressor, was employed to analyze the data, allowing for a thorough identification of patterns and factors influencing students' preferences This integrated approach provided a comprehensive understanding of the research study.
The study utilized semi-structured interviews to flexibly explore students' experiences with online vocabulary learning tools Conducted online, these interviews provided a comfortable environment tailored to students' preferences and schedules To ensure accuracy, reliable audio recording software was used, and notes were taken to capture key points and non-verbal cues Participants engaged in the interviews using their smartphones and/or computers to respond to the questions posed.
This study employed a data saturation approach for qualitative research, focusing on the quality and depth of information gathered through in-depth interviews with a sample size of six participants The principle of data saturation dictates that interviews continue until no new themes or insights emerge (Guest & Johnson, 2006; Saunders et al., 2018) With a population of 55 first-year English majors at Nguyen Tat Thanh University, purposive sampling of six carefully selected individuals is typically adequate to reach saturation This non-linear method allows for concurrent data analysis during collection, helping researchers identify when saturation is achieved.
To effectively select participants for the study, several key criteria were established The focus is on interviewees who can engage in meaningful conversations, articulate their experiences clearly, frequently use online vocabulary tools, and represent various subgroups within the population Additionally, the sampling composition aims for gender balance, including three first-year male and three first-year female English majors, while also considering key demographics and diverse backgrounds Lastly, the study emphasizes the practicality of conducting interviews, taking into account participant accessibility, time and resource constraints, communication skills, and logistical factors related to geographic location.
Data collection methods
A survey was created using Google Forms to assess students' opinions on online vocabulary learning tools and methods This survey aims to gather insights regarding satisfaction, comprehension, and the perceived effectiveness of online vocabulary learning activities.
During the interviews, notes were taken and recordings were made using the researcher's smartphone equipped with a recording function These recordings were subsequently transcribed using a Google tool designed for transcription The collected data was analyzed meticulously, with a focus on identifying trends, recurring patterns, and relationships among the variables.
All data collection methods will strictly follow ethical guidelines, ensuring the protection of privacy and obtaining informed consent from all participants before data collection begins.