A new co-authored research paper on vocabulary learning and practice distribution by Dr. Muna Muqaibal (a former PhD student at the University of Reading’s Institute of Education who now works at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Oman) and her doctoral supervisors Professor Cathy Tissot (Professor in Special Educational Needs) and Dr. Rowena Kasprowicz (Associate Professor in Second Language Education) is soon to be published in the Language Teaching Research journal.

The article, titled ‘Evaluating the impact of spaced practice using computer-assisted language learning (CALL) on vocabulary learning in the classroom’  presents the findings of Dr. Muqaibal’s classroom-based experimental study, which investigates the influence of practice distribution (i.e., 1-day versus 7-day spacing between practice sessions) on vocabulary learning via a computer-based application (Quizlet). The study revealed significant improvements in learners’ vocabulary knowledge following the intervention and further that the spacing of practice sessions did not mediate learning success through this computer-based vocabulary practice. These findings suggest that practice distribution may be less relevant when the practice itself is high quality.

 

Reference

Muqaibal, M., Kasprowicz, R.E. & Tissot, C. (accepted). Evaluating the impact of spaced practice using computer-assisted language learning (CALL) on vocabulary learning in the classroom. Language Teaching Research.

 

Dr. Muna Muqaibal

 

Professor Cathy Tissot

 

Dr. Rowena Kasprowicz