Influence of using songs and dictionary in teaching vocabulary

Abstract

This study investigated whether students exposed to dictionary and songs would experience a change in vocabulary competence. To fulfil this purpose, 32 Diploma in Business Management students were selected from University College Shahputra located in Kuantan Pahang. These participants were then divided into two equal experimental groups. The study was carried out over a four – week course. The first group adopted the dictionary and the second group adopted English songs as a learning method in learning vocabulary. Data was gathered through a vocabulary pre-test and post- test, and interviews. Result revealed that both group students showed slightly improvement. However, students who acquired vocabulary through dictionary experienced a slight improvement in their vocabulary competence. However, students’ perceptions indicated that they preferred learning vocabulary through English songs and they also claimed that this approach has a better memory retention.