Difficulties in Learning English Vocabulary Faced by College Students of Pakistan

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the difficulties in learning English vocabulary faced by college students of Pakistan. The research intends to focus on the difficulties in learning words faced by students. A qualitative method was employed according to the aim of the research for collecting data. Interviews were taken from 05 participants in order to understand the kinds of difficulties they experience during learning words. Semi-structured interviews were conducted from selected participants. The data was transcribed and analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that the most difficult problems which students face such as short term memory, spelling errors, pronunciation, lack of reading practices, length of words, and appropriate usage of words are the major factors in learning English vocabulary. The results also showed that the lack of regular practices and lack of interest in learning vocabulary is another responsible factor. In light of these findings the study suggests effective strategies: determination, memorizing techniques, cognitive, and meta-cognitive.