Utilizing Anki to Enhance Vocabulary Acquisition among First-Year Students at a University in Hanoi

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54855/paic.2574

Keywords:

influence, perceptions, vocabulary learning, Anki flashcards

Abstract

Numerous studies have explored various aspects of integrating digital flashcards into English language teaching and learning. This study explores students' perceptions of Anki, a web-based flashcard program, and its influences on students’ vocabulary acquisition. Using a mixed-method approach, the research involves the participation of 40 freshmen from two intact classes at the elementary level. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests, questionnaires, and interviews, and subsequently analyzed. The participants were given a pre-test before embarking on a three-week period of learning the Vocabulary List presented in Reading Explorer 1, 3rd edition, which serves as their textbook. The control group (n = 20) used paper flashcards, while the experimental group (n = 20) employed Anki flashcards. A post-test was carried out to compare the effectiveness of the two vocabulary methods. Afterward, participants completed a survey, and a subset of six individuals were interviewed to gather insights into their perceptions of Anki. The study findings revealed that while traditional flashcards and Anki contributed to improved vocabulary acquisition, the group learning with Anki outperformed the control group. Additionally, learners found Anki to be both useful and enjoyable, although user-friendliness was not considered a significant advantage based on their feedback. The findings are of great value in providing educators and students with a profound understanding of Anki's impact on facilitating learners' vocabulary learning.

Author Biographies

Nguyen Thi Minh Huyen, School of Languages and Tourism, Hanoi University of Industry, Vietnam

Huyen Nguyen is currently a lecturer at School of Languages and Tourism, Hanoi University of Industry, where she teaches courses in Language Skills. She holds an MA in English Linguistics from Hanoi University of Languages and International Studies. Her research areas embrace corpus linguistics, second language teaching methodologies, task-based language learning, and technology-assisted learning, with a particular focus on digital game-based language learning.

Nguyen Minh Ngoc, School of Languages and Tourism, Hanoi University of Industry, Vietnam

Ngoc Nguyen is currently a lecturer of English at School of Languages and Tourism, Hanoi University of Industry. She obtained an MA degree in TESOL & FLT from Canberra University and has more than 5 years of experience in teaching English as a foreign language. Her research interests include teaching English productive skills, technology in education, and collaborative and interactive learning.

Luong Hue Phuong, School of Languages and Tourism, Hanoi University of Industry, Vietnam

Phuong Luong is an English language teacher and researcher with a Master's degree in English Language Teaching. She currently teaches at Hanoi University of Industry, where she actively develops and implements programs tailored to the specific language needs of students in various vocational fields. Phuong is passionate about integrating technology into teaching and learning and has been exploring various blended learning approaches to engage and empower her students. Her research interests include language programs and blended learning.

References

Altiner, C. (2011). Integrating a computer-based flashcard program into academic vocabulary learning. Unpublished doctoral dissertation. Iowa State University. Available from Proquest Dissertations and Theses database. UMI No. 1498719.

Davis, F. D., Bagozzi, R. P., & Warshaw, P. R. (1989). User acceptance of computer Technology: A comparison of two theoretical models. Management Science, 35(8), 982–1003. https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.35.8.982 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.35.8.982

Egort, I., & Nation, I. S. P. (2010). Vocabulary learning in a second language: Familiar answers to new questions. In P. Seedhouse, S. Walsh, & C. Jenks (Eds.), Conceptualising “learning” in applied linguistics. Houndmills, UK: Palgrave Macmillan. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230289772_6

Foster, H. (2009). Building learner-generated vocabulary logs with Quizlet. The Language Teacher, 33(12), 23-25.

Mujahidah., Hasanah, N., Yusuf, M., Zulfah., & Fatmasyamsinar, A. (2024). The Implementation of Ankiapp to Improve Students’ Vocabulary Mastery. SALTeL Journal (Southeast Asia Language Teaching and Learning), 7, 9-18. https://doi.org/10.35307/saltel.v7i1.115.

Laufer, B., & Goldstein, Z. (2004). Testing vocabulary knowledge: Size, strength, and computer adaptiveness. Language Learning, 54(3), 399–436. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.0023-8333.2004.00260.x DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.0023-8333.2004.00260.x

Nakata, T. (2011). Computer-assisted second language vocabulary learning in a paired-associate paradigm: a critical investigation of flashcard software. Computer Assisted Language Learning, 24(1), 17-38. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2010.520675

Nguyen, T. T., Nguyen, D. T., Nguyen, D. L. Q. K., Mai, H. H., & Le, T. T. X. (2021). Quizlet as a tool for Enhancing Autonomous Learning of English Vocabulary. AsiaCALL Online Journal, 13(1), 150–165. https://doi.org/10.54855/acoj221319 DOI: https://doi.org/10.54855/acoj221319

Mclean, S., Hogg, N. & Rush, T. (2013). Vocabulary learning through an online computerized flashcard site. Jalt CALL journal, 9(1), 79–98. DOI: https://doi.org/10.29140/jaltcall.v9n1.149

Mujahidah, S., Sari, N. P., & Purwaningsih, D. (2024). The implementation of AnkiApp to improve students’ vocabulary mastery. JETLi: Journal of English Teaching and Linguistics, 5(1), 15–25. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/378047724 DOI: https://doi.org/10.35307/saltel.v7i1.115

Pyc, M.A., & Rawson, K.A. (2007). Examining the efficiency of schedules of distributed retrieval practice. Memory & Cognition, 35(8), 1917-1927. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03192925

Ranalli, J. (2009). Prospects for Developing L2 Students’ Effective Use of Vocabulary Learning-Strategies via Web-Based Training. CALICO Journal, 27(1), 161–186. https://doi.org/10.11139/cj.27.1.161-186 DOI: https://doi.org/10.11139/cj.27.1.161-186

Richards, J. C., & Schimidt, R. (2002). Longman dictionary of language teaching and applied linguistics (3rd Ed.). London: Peasron Education.

Schmitt, N. (2010). Researching vocabulary: A vocabulary research manual. Basingstoke, U.K.: Palgrave Macmillian. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230293977

Schmitt, N. (2019). Understanding vocabulary learning and teaching: Past, present, and future directions. Language Teaching, 52(2), 261–274. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0261444819000018 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0261444819000053

Spiri, J. (2014). Online study of frequency list vocabulary with the WordChamp website. Reflections on English Language Teaching, 7(1), 21–36.

Teng, F. (2016). The effectiveness of vocabulary learning strategies for Chinese EFL learners at the tertiary level. Educational Sciences: Theory & Practice, 16(5), 1581–1600.

Trinh, T. H., Nguyen, M. N., & Tran, T. T. H. (2022). Teachers and students’ perceptions of using digital games in improving vocabulary at Non-English-majored Class. AsiaCALL Online Journal, 13(5), 112–131. https://doi.org/10.54855/acoj.221358 DOI: https://doi.org/10.54855/acoj.221358

Vu, D.B., Vu, K.T., Ninh,V.T., & Ma, C.P. (2024). Improving vocabulary proficiency through the Anki application in teaching English to high school students. TNU Journal of Science and Technology, 229(16), 205-211. https://doi.org/10.34238/tnu-jst.10471 DOI: https://doi.org/10.34238/tnu-jst.10471

Webb, S. (2020). Vocabulary in language teaching. Cambridge University Press.

Zare, M., & Barjasteh, H. (2017). Incorporating intelligent flashcards for fostering EFL learners' vocabulary knowledge: The case of Anki Software. Technics Technologies Education Management, 12(3), 184-191.

Downloads

Published

2025-07-16

How to Cite

Nguyen, T. M. H., Nguyen, M. N., & Luong, H. P. (2025). Utilizing Anki to Enhance Vocabulary Acquisition among First-Year Students at a University in Hanoi. Proceedings of the AsiaCALL International Conference, 7, 34–47. https://doi.org/10.54855/paic.2574

Similar Articles

<< < 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 > >> 

You may also start an advanced similarity search for this article.