Problems and Difficulties in Learning English Vocabulary among EFL Students
Keywords:
Vocabulary learning, EFL students, vocabulary difficulties, learning strategies, SPSSAbstract
This study aimed to investigate the problems and difficulties faced by EFL students in learning English vocabulary at the Faculty of Education, Qasr Bin Ghashir. The study adopted the descriptive analytical method and used a quantitative approach. A questionnaire was distributed to a sample of 80 students in order to collect data about the main vocabulary-learning difficulties they encounter. The questionnaire consisted of demographic information and nine items covering three main axes: linguistic difficulties, cognitive and memory-related difficulties, and contextual use and vocabulary learning strategies.
The collected data were analyzed using SPSS through frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, Cronbach’s Alpha, Independent Samples T-test, and One-Way ANOVA. The results showed that students face several vocabulary-learning difficulties, especially in understanding word meanings in different contexts, pronouncing new vocabulary correctly, memorizing and recalling words, and using vocabulary accurately in sentences. The findings also revealed that students do not have enough opportunities to practice new vocabulary and need more effective strategies to help them learn, remember, and use English vocabulary correctly. The study recommends giving more attention to vocabulary instruction, providing more practice opportunities, and training students in effective vocabulary learning strategies.
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