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What is Dictionary Function

Chapter 9
Emerging Concepts in Technology-Enhanced Language Teaching and Learning
In digital era, a dictionary app may be equipped with various functions to inform users of the information of the looked-up items. Basic dictionary functions include providing definition, pronunciation, and example sentences. More advanced functions include predicting common errors of the searched item, organizing searched items for further study, providing pronunciation and intonation checking or grammar checking, etc. There might be some discrepancies in functions provided by a dictionary and those desired by its users. It is suggested that dictionary developers should consider incorporating the functions desired by the users to sustain language learners’ autonomous use.
Published in Chapter:
How Do University L2 Learners Make Use of Mobile Dictionary Apps to Become Autonomous Learners?
Qing Ma (The Education University of Hong Kong, China) and Jiahao Yan (The Education University of Hong Kong, China)
Copyright: © 2022 |Pages: 23
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-7998-8981-6.ch009
Abstract
The ability to make good use of mobile dictionary applications (apps) is a key factor of autonomy in language learning. This study investigates how L2 learners use dictionary apps to become autonomous learners when engaging in mobile assisted language learning (MALL). A questionnaire was designed to collect data from more than 200 university students to explore second language (L2) learners' personal experiences with mobile dictionary apps. The results show that dictionary apps not only facilitate students' academic studies, but also become essential to these students' successful language learning. Students enjoy the autonomy of choosing which dictionary app to use, as well as when and where to do so. However, discrepancies exist between the dictionary functions learners use and those they desire, suggesting that future apps could integrate more functions to better fit learners' needs and help them become autonomous. Some pedagogical implications are proposed to improve learner autonomy with regard to using mobile dictionary apps.
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