Non-specialist’s perceptions for learning English vocabulary at Hanoi Procuratorate University

Abstract

This research has investigated perceptions, difficulties and suggested solutions on learning vocabulary strategies in English. Vocabulary learning strategies seem to be of great interest given the urgent need to build a vocabulary system that is easily accessible to English learners, playing  a central role in language classes. However, the fact that the majority of English learners at Hanoi Procuratorate University are traditionally taught with methods that do not pay enough attention to vocabulary can lead to a detrimental scenario, whereby vocabulary acquisition is neglected. A questionnaire was administered to collect data on these issues. The results suggest that the first-year law-majors are aware of a range of vocabulary learning strategies including direct and indirect approaches to vocabulary acquisition. Therefore, it is necessary to incorporate awareness raising activities into the educational program, or offer  in-service training, to inform language learners about advanced vocabulary acquisition strategies based on empirical research, as well as some feasible methods for utilizing context in vocabulary learning.