Differential Semantic Mapping Modes and EFL Learners' Vocabulary Learning and Retention

While teaching vocabulary, it is crucial to consider the facilitative role of various techniques that may intensify and promote memory strategies required for meaningful learning and long-term retention. The present study aimed to compare the effect of three semantic mapping strategies of Word Relationship (WR), Lexical Relations and Definition (LRD), and Personal Word Connections (PWC) on Iranian EFL learners’ vocabulary learning and retention. To this end, 120 intermediate EFL learners were assigned to three contrast groups and a control group, each with 30 participants who were randomly assigned to three WR, LRDG, and PWC experimental groups and a control group who attended the treatment two sessions a week for four weeks in which the vocabulary was presented via the three semantic differential modes. The control group received no treatment regarding the target words and was only involved in merely reviewing and revising the words. Immediate and delayed parallel vocabulary posttests were deployed immediately after the treatment and at a two-week interval to detect the impact of the instructional interventions on the participants’ vocabulary learning and retention, respectively. The results of three one-way ANOVA tests and four repeated-measure ANOVA tests showed significantly higher improvements in the experimental groups’ learning compared to the control group with the UWR outperforming others and achieving higher levels of learning and retention. In terms of the two other contrast groups, the PWC ranked second and the LRD ranked last. The findings underscore WR as an effective technique, the pedagogical implications of which will be discussed.