Vocabulary Learning Strategies of EFL Libyan Learners of Omar Almukhtar University, Derna

Abstract

Studying previous literature, it is found that some surveys promote teaching specific types of learning strategies to help learners in vocabulary acquisition. However, there were few studies concentrated on EFL Libyan learners. For example, Aljdee's (2011) case study, which conducted to identify the range and frequency of vocabulary learning strategies the learners use at Zawia University. Another survey by Khalifa (2015) studied the effectiveness of vocabulary learning strategies on the academic achievements of pre-university EFL learners. Therefore, this paper aims to address the vocabulary learning strategies used by Libyan Learners at Omar Almokhtar University and the correlation between the strategies they utilize and their English proficiency level. 26 male and female majors were asked to complete a vocabulary questionnaire. Participants reported using several vocabulary strategies: word cards, using dictionaries, repeating new words, and using notebooks. It found that learners ' proficiency level improves at the same time as they use more learning strategies. In terms of gender aspect, Libyan male students use more strategies than females. In addition, they differ in using specific types of strategies; for example, males use strategies of repeating new words and word cards in comparison with girls who overwhelmingly use dictionaries. This survey concluded that the technique of using dictionaries is the most efficient strategy in vocabulary learning.