Enhancing Second Language Vocabulary Acquisition through Self-Regulation, Spaced Repetition, and Cognitive Load Management Strategies

Abstract

This study aims to investigate not only how learners perceive the effectiveness of this approach for long-term retention and practical application, but also how they experience the learning process in terms of cognitive load. Effectively managing cognitive load, the amount of information learners can process at once, is crucial for successful implementation of SR and SpR techniques. Building a strong vocabulary is essential for becoming fluent in a second language. Traditional methods like memorization often prove ineffective. Recent breakthroughs in understanding of memory and learning offer promising alternatives. such as spaced retention and spaced retrieval, believed to work even better together. The integration of SR and SpR positively influences the overall learning experience by promoting deeper cognitive engagement and better retention. Research shows that combining different instructional strategies, such as top-down and bottom-up processes, enhances vocabulary learning and retention. Cognitive load refers to the amount of information that learners can process at one time. While spaced learning offers advantages, it can be overwhelming if learners are presented with excessive vocabulary or complex retrieval tasks. As research on this combined approach continues to evolve, educators can utilize these findings to create inclusive and effective learning environments that empower L2 learners to achieve fluency and confidence in their vocabulary usage.