CHALLENGES IN VOCABULARY LEARNING STRATEGY USE BY ENGLISH MAJORS

Abstract

 A rich vocabulary is crucial for English learners, yet first-year English majors often struggle with applying vocabulary learning strategies (VLSs). This mixed-methods study investigated VLS use among 100 first-year students at a university in Central Vietnam via survey and explored challenges and solutions through focus group interviews with 20 students. Findings indicate students face significant difficulties applying VLSs, particularly social and memory strategies. Key obstacles include learning specialized or lengthy words and limited long-term retention. Consequently, students suggested actively seeking opportunities to use new words in speaking and writing. Crucially, they emphasized the need to identify and apply VLSs suited to individual learning styles for effective vocabulary enhancement.