Students' Attitudes towards Teaching and Learning Semantics through Pop Culture

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54855/ijte.24436

Keywords:

Semantics training, pop culture, students'attitudes, Van Lang University

Abstract

Meaning is undeniably the core of human communication, with semantics, the study of meaning, playing a crucial role in linguistics programs. Traditional teaching methods in semantics are often considered dry and reliant on memorization, potentially hindering student motivation. While some research suggests that authentic materials can improve language learning, there needs to be more research on their impact in Vietnamese university contexts. This study explores Van Lang University English majors' perceptions of integrating pop culture materials into Semantics courses, offering insights for educators to make Semantics more engaging and effective. The study was designed quantitatively with a survey questionnaire administered to 113 English-majored seniors. Results show that students had positive attitudes toward using pop culture in Semantics training, finding it made the course more comprehensible and engaging. However, opinions on the challenges of this approach were unclear. The study provides implications for students, teachers, and future research.

Author Biography

  • Tran Thi Mai, Faculty of Foreign Languages, Van Lang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

    Ms. Tran Thi Mai graduated from Curtin University, majoring in Applied Linguistics. She has 10 years of experience in English Language Teaching, from general English, specialized subjects, to TOEIC and IELTS preparation courses at universities such as Bach Khoa University, Hoa Sen University and Van Lang University. Her teaching philosophy is the unceasing improvement in every lesson delivered to her students so that they can enrich their knowledge, sharpen their skills, and shape a positive attitude towards independent, responsible, and lifelong learning. Her areas of interest in research are mindful learning, blended learning, and autonomy.

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Published

09-08-2024

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Research Article

How to Cite

Tran, T. M. (2024). Students’ Attitudes towards Teaching and Learning Semantics through Pop Culture. International Journal of TESOL & Education, 4(3), 96-109. https://doi.org/10.54855/ijte.24436

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