EFL Learners' Use of Collocation Learning Strategies


Serter M., Dağ Akbaş R.

10th International KTUDELL Conference: Language, Literature, and Translation, Trabzon, Türkiye, 29 - 30 Mayıs 2025, ss.79, (Özet Bildiri)

  • Yayın Türü: Bildiri / Özet Bildiri
  • Basıldığı Şehir: Trabzon
  • Basıldığı Ülke: Türkiye
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.79
  • Karadeniz Teknik Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Mastering vocabulary is essential in a foreign language (FL) to convey thoughts and feelings

accurately; however, learning words in isolation may be insufficient in an English as a

Foreign Language (EFL) context. English collocations, words commonly occurring together,

may be particularly helpful for EFL learners aiming to sound more native-like, produce

natural utterances, facilitate basic language skills including reading comprehension, and

enhance writing proficiency. Nonetheless, acquiring English collocations may be challenging

and often necessitating teachers’ guidance. Therefore, introducing collocation learning

strategies (CLS) may benefit the learners’ acquisition process. Similar to how learners

integrate vocabulary learning strategies (VLSs) into their language learning process, they

may also use CLSs to boost their language proficiency. While previous studies have

predominantly examined EFL students’ use of VLSs, limited attention has been given to CLS.

This study aims to identify the strategies from which EFL learners benefit most when

studying and practicing collocations. The study utilized a quantitative research design, and

data were collected from 54 EFL students from preparatory and freshman classes using the

Collocation Learning Strategies Questionnaire, which consists of seven subcategories. Factor

analysis was conducted using the SPSS software, and the results revealed that the students

employ various CLSs with varying frequencies, though predominantly at moderate levels.

The study suggests that EFL teachers should actively guide students in using additional CLS.

To enhance EFL learners’ language learning experiences, further research is necessary to

explore effective methods for integrating CLS into contemporary EFL classrooms.

Keywords: English, vocabulary, collocations, strategy use, language learner