A Study of the Vocabulary Learning Strategies Used by Chinese Students

Abstract: This essay aims on the study of the strategies used by Chinese English major students in vocabulary learning, the differences between effective and less effective learners in using vocabulary learning strategies. The study is based on qualitative research, in which 35 college students were investigated. The participants were asked to take a vocabulary tests and complete a questionnaire. The data of the research indicates that there are significant differences between effective and less effective learner, and common points between effective learners. Effective learners use several learning methods and have a positive attitude. Meanwhile, there are six methods they use in common, they are, having interest in English, listening and reading, learning words in sentence, using bilingual dictionary, reading English books in spare time and studying the spelling. Acquisition of vocabulary has been acknowledged as primary important and being central for second language acquisition. Vocabulary is always a hindrance to Chinese students. However, there is little research has been done on the vocabulary learning strategies used by Chinese English majors.