المعهد التقني التكنولوجي

Researcher Mohammed Laith Alwan from the Department of Technical Skills at Basra Technological Technical Institute conducted a study titled “Effectiveness and Challenges of Using Monolingual Dictionaries Among Second-Year Technical Studies Students”. The study highlights the positive impact of integrating monolingual dictionaries into the curriculum for enhancing students’ language proficiency and fostering their autonomy in learning.

The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of English monolingual dictionaries in developing vocabulary skills and reading comprehension among students learning English as a foreign language. It also sought to identify the main challenges faced by students when using these dictionaries.

A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 120 upper-intermediate level students. Data collection tools included a vocabulary proficiency test, a reading test, a questionnaire, and semi-structured interviews.

The results revealed that the use of monolingual dictionaries significantly contributed to improving students’ vocabulary skills and reading comprehension. However, some difficulties were noted, such as limited familiarity with dictionary use strategies and the lengthy time required to search for words. Participants highly valued the benefits of dictionaries in vocabulary expansion, enhancing writing and communication skills, and promoting self-directed learning.