The Use of Oxford’s Memory Strategies to Improve Vocabulary Learning Among Eleventh Grade EFL Students in Oman

Abstract

Omani students must acquire English vocabulary to achieve educational qualifications and effectively communicate with English-speaking individuals, as vocabulary plays a crucial part in studying a foreign language and achieving academic success. Omani eleventh-grade students require assistance in employing effective ways for acquiring and retaining English vocabulary. They struggle with word retrieval in both spoken and written language. This study investigates the memory strategies utilised, preferred strategies, and influencing factors among eleventh grade EFL students in Oman. This study utilises an explanatory sequential mixed methods methodology. Convenience sampling was used to involve 126 students in this study. The researcher gathered data through a questionnaire, a semi-structured interview, and an observation checklist. The questionnaire data is analysed by descriptive statistical analysis, which includes calculating the mean and standard deviation. Thematic analysis is utilised for analysing the semi-structured interview data, while observation analysis is carried out to assess the classroom observation checklist. The findings showed that the most utilised category of methods is reviewing well (x=3.99), followed by employing actions (x=3.07). Interviews reveal that students favour utilising movies, visual aids, gaming, or competitive activities while interacting with their peers and friends. Additionally, CML tactics are predominantly utilised by teachers in their classrooms. The study results would assist educators in developing their vocabulary teaching strategies more efficiently, resulting in increased advantages for students. The curriculum developers could create tasks that enhance language acquisition.