Electronic dictionaries versus printed dictionaries: The effects of dictionary medium on vocabulary development

As advances in technology drive digital transformation, the utilization of technology becomes an essential component of education. However, this situation arouses the question of whether technology is always better. This study aims to investigate the effects of electronic dictionaries comparing printed dictionaries on vocabulary learning, search time of learners, vocabulary retention and perceptions of learners. The study was conducted in the 2021-2022 academic year with 66 secondary school students in Van, Turkey. An explanatory sequential mixed research methodology was adopted in this study. As for the quantitative data, vocabulary tests administered to both groups, and observation method was used to obtain search time of participants. As for the qualitative data collection, interviews were carried out with five control group, and five experimental group participants. The students were asked to look up 15 words, 32 of whom used electronic dictionaries, and 34 used printed dictionaries. Results indicate that there is no significant difference in vocabulary learning and retention between the users of printed dictionary and electronic dictionary. However, there is a significant difference in vocabulary learning efficacy which is calculated with search time of participants. The users of electronic dictionary indicate higher level of vocabulary learning efficacy than the users of printed dictionary. Furthermore, it is revealed that users found that electronic dictionaries are more useful than printed dictionaries for several reasons. Key Words: Printed Dictionary, Electronic Dictionary, Vocabulary Learning, Vocabulary Retention, Vocabulary Learning Efficacy.