ERIC Number: EJ1214856
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2019
Pages: 19
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1523-5882
EISSN: N/A
Learning Vocabulary on Screen: A Content Analysis of Pedagogical Supports in Educational Media Programs for Dual-Language Learners
Wong, Kevin M.; Neuman, Susan B.
Bilingual Research Journal, v42 n1 p54-72 2019
Educational media is ubiquitous in the lives of young children, promising high-quality programming to equip them with vocabulary knowledge and school readiness. To meet the needs of preschool-aged dual-language learners (DLLs), many educational programs are marketed to promote vocabulary learning in two languages. In this study, we use a content analysis to examine (1) the extent to which these programs focus on vocabulary in two languages, (2) dual-language instructional supports used in media; and (3) the quality of words taught on screen. We analyzed 50 episodes from five leading dual-language educational programs. Using a flow chart and an iteratively-developed codebook, we identified vocabulary clips and screen-based pedagogical supports used in these programs. Results indicate there were strikingly few vocabulary clips in the videos analyzed. Moreover, most of the clips were of simple vocabulary words taught primarily in English rather than Spanish or Mandarin. The most prevalent screen-based pedagogical supports included repetitions, visual supports, and demonstrations. However, there were noteworthy differences in the types of supports by program and language. Findings suggest that the dual-language appeal of programs may serve more as a marketing tool than an instructional tool for vocabulary development. Implications for research in dual-language vocabulary instruction are discussed.
Descriptors: Vocabulary Development, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Content Analysis, Teaching Methods, Preschool Children, School Readiness, Flow Charts, Video Technology, Bilingualism, Second Language Learning, Linguistic Theory, Learning Theories, Native Language, Transfer of Training, Educational Television, Programming (Broadcast), Linguistic Input, Word Lists, English (Second Language)
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Institute of Education Sciences (ED)
Authoring Institution: N/A
IES Funded: Yes
Grant or Contract Numbers: R305A150143