Learner beliefs about vocabulary teaching in secondary ESL classrooms: a proficiency and grade-level analysis

Abstract

<p>Learner beliefs are widely acknowledged as key to the success of second language learning and teaching. Despite extensive research on English as a second language (ESL) learners' beliefs, few studies have focused on vocabulary teaching. Our study addresses this gap by surveying 556 secondary school students in Hong Kong to explore their beliefs about various instructional practices and activities in vocabulary teaching, and how these beliefs vary with English proficiency and grade levels. The findings reveal that students valued diverse instructional methods, including specific strategies and engaging activities like games. However, they generally lacked autonomy in learning vocabulary, showing a tendency to rely on teacher instruction. The analysis also suggests that the students' beliefs varied according to their English proficiency and grade levels. More proficient learners preferred strategy-focused instruction, while senior secondary students favoured more explicit instruction from teachers. Open-ended responses underscored the multifaceted and nuanced nature of students' beliefs about vocabulary teaching. The study highlights the importance of promoting autonomous vocabulary learning, balancing engaging and conventional activities, and tailoring instruction to accommodate diverse needs across different proficiency and grade levels. We also provide insights for future studies on learner beliefs about vocabulary teaching.</p>