Tamara FELLAY

Abstract

In modern education, traditional methods of vocabulary acquisition—relying on passive learning and memorization—are increasingly being challenged. Research suggests that multisensory and movement-based learning can enhance engagement and retention. This work investigates the effects of these methods on vocabulary acquisition in an English teaching unit on healthy nutrition. The study involved pre-, post-, and delayed post-tests to assess student performance.

Prior to the teaching unit, students scored an average of 50% (11.5/23) on Test A. Following the intervention, Test B results showed an improvement, with an average score of 60.4% (13.89/23), indicating possible short-term gains in vocabulary acquisition. Test C, conducted six weeks later, revealed that words learned through multisensory and movement-based methods (List B) were retained significantly better (59.7%) than those learned through traditional methods (40.3%) like studying a list at home. These findings suggest that integrating movement and sensory engagement into vocabulary learning may enhance both immediate learning outcomes and long-term retention even though this study’s design with a only small sample size need to be taken into consideration.

This study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting active learning strategies in language education. Future research should explore the impact of individual learning preferences and the optimal balance between movement-based and traditional learning approaches on a larger scale.