ENHANCING ELS STUDENTS’ LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY THROUGH SPACED REPETITION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31110/2616-650X-vol12i8-005Keywords:
spaced repetition, memory retention language acquisition, cognitive psychology, language learning outcomesAbstract
In language learning, the method of spaced repetition has gained significant importance. It is undoubtedly a learning technique that can greatly enhance students' vocabulary and grammar acquisition. Spaced repetition allows to improve students' long-term retention of the language content they study enhancing language learning through active engagement, repetition, and visual aids. The effectiveness of spaced repetition as a method of improving English language acquisition was investigated by the authors of the paper. The participants of the research were students at the National Technical University of Ukraine "Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute." The experiment involved 76 students, who were divided into two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group applied spaced repetition to their vocabulary and grammar learning, while the control group continued their studies according to the traditional syllabus without the use of spaced repetition. To assess the impact of spaced repetition, both groups took the same test before and after the experiment. The pre-test served to establish a baseline measurement of each student's vocabulary and grammar proficiency, allowing for a direct comparison of progress made during the study. The post-test, conducted at the end of the experiment, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the spaced repetition method by measuring any improvements in language skills. Data was collected through a combination of online surveys and a Likert scale questionnaire. The results demonstrated that the majority of students in the experimental group, who consistently used spaced repetition, reported significant improvements in their language skills, as evidenced by higher scores on the post-experiment test. In contrast, the control group showed less pronounced progress, highlighting the added value of spaced repetition in language learning. The findings underline the versatility and effectiveness of spaced repetition, especially when integrated into the daily learning process. This method not only proved its effectiveness for memorization but also enhanced the practical application of language skills, leading to more confident and accurate communication in English. Additionally, students in the experimental group reported positive impacts on their motivation and time management, further supporting the potential of spaced repetition as a powerful tool for language education across various linguistic fields.
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