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ERIC Number: EJ997532
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 6
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1559-663X
EISSN: N/A
Online English-English Learner Dictionaries Boost Word Learning
Nurmukhamedov, Ulugbek
English Teaching Forum, v50 n4 p10-15 2012
Learners of English might be familiar with several online monolingual dictionaries that are not necessarily the best choices for the English as Second/Foreign Language (ESL/EFL) context. Although these monolingual online dictionaries contain definitions, pronunciation guides, and other elements normally found in general-use dictionaries, they are compiled with native or near-native speakers of English in mind, not for learners of English. English learners tend to gravitate to these dictionaries because they are seemingly unaware of other dictionaries that are specifically designed for them. Research on dictionary use in second language teaching indicates learners of English gain much when they become familiar with dictionary features. For this reason, ESL/EFL teachers should learn about and introduce the several excellent online dictionaries with features especially designed for learners of English. These online dictionaries promote strategic and effective word learning, but it is critical for learners to be trained by teachers who are familiar with proper dictionary use so that the online dictionaries are used to maximum benefit in the classroom. The best online learner dictionaries include: (1) a corpus-based compilation of words; (2) word frequency data; (3) collocation guides; (4) authentic examples of how words are used; and (5) topical vocabulary from different disciplines. This article helps teachers become aware of these important features and also provides suggestions on how to integrate dictionary-related exercises into their ESL/EFL lesson plans. (Contains 1 table.)
US Department of State. Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, Office of English Language Programs, SA-5, 2200 C Street NW 4th Floor, Washington, DC 20037. e-mail: etforum@state.gov; Web site: http://www.forum.state.gov
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A