Dictionary Use by Saudi EFL University Preparatory Program Students

Abstract

t is undoubtedly true that dictionaries are an indispensable tool for language learners, as they are sources of information as well as aids to learning (Nation, 2001). More specifically, learners' dictionaries are considered reservoirs of treasures and jewels of information about words and their etymology, formation, behavior, and usage (Nakamura, 2000). The current study was set to explore dictionary use among Saudi EFL university students at preparatory programs. The study included 100 female and male students from seven different Saudi universities. A 42-item questionnaire was administered to tap the participants' behavior towards dictionary use in terms of a) the type of dictionary they own, b) language skills they tend to use the dictionary with, c) reasons that make them use a dictionary, and d) the types of information they look up. The results showed that the participants tended to use electronic dictionaries as well dictionaries available on the Internet more than paper-based or handheld electronic dictionaries. Moreover, the need to discover the meaning of a new word or to confirm the meaning of a previously met word was the most important reason for the current study's participants to look up a word. When the types of information sought was involved, checking the pronunciation and the spelling of a word obtained the highest scores. Finally, it was suggested that further research concerning the new emerging skills of dictionary look-ups due to the advancements of technology needs to be conducted.