E-learning of English Phrasal Verbs via Pictorial Elucidation and L1 Glosses

This paper reports on a comparative study of e-learning of English phrasal verbs on the picture and L1 gloss mediums. The results showed that more participants on the picture medium experienced nonverbal conceptual links with concepts, and processed information faster than those on the L1 gloss medium, which seems to suggest important implications for the Dual Coding theory. While the picture medium brought relatively better results than the L1 gloss medium, and was favored by the participants, it alone was not sufficient, and should be supported by other mediums for significant achievement. This study also reminded us of a need for a careful selection of phrasal verbs, and the use of good quality pictures and a variety of question formats.