The Use of Electronic Dictionaries in EFL Classroom

Abstract

Today’s dictionaries have more information and are easier to access and to understand than ever before. And, with the advent of electronic formats, space is no longer the problem it was. Electronic dictionaries have become more and more attractive, accepted and popular to EFL learners at different levels, using electronic dictionaries in EFL classroom has gradually become an alternative to many. As for teachers, helping students tap into electronic dictionaries effectively is one of the best ways to help them become independent, lifelong language learners. In this essay, the functionality of electronic dictionaries and reasons why they are popular in EFL class will be introduced. Also, some of the current issues related to the integration of electronic dictionaries into EFL instruction and learning will be identified and discussed. The author’s views towards this topic will be presented as well, based on the observation and reflection of using electronic dictionaries in EFL classes at a Chinese university.