English (L2) vocabulary knowledge of Dutch university students - An exploratory study.
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2020-07-13
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en
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Abstract
Little is known about the literacy skills of Dutch students in English as a second language. Vocabulary knowledge is essential in language mastery. This study provides insights into the general English (3,000 word-level) vocabulary and academic English vocabulary knowledge of Dutch university students. The study included two factors: morphological awareness and reading attitudes. The current study conducted an online vocabulary test on two levels, a morphological awareness test and a questionnaire about reading for study purposes in English under 111 Dutch students. Results indicated that both general and academic English vocabulary were below mastery level, implicating that educational improvements need to be made, so students can extend their vocabulary knowledge to the acquired level. Furthermore, morphological awareness was shown to be a significant predictor for vocabulary knowledge on both levels, whereas causal relationships between vocabulary and reading attitudes could not be established in the current research. The study extends the existing academic knowledge on both vocabulary knowledge and morphological awareness in Dutch students, thereby contributing to the academic field.
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Faculteit der Letteren