Biography
Prof. Marina Dodigovic
Prof. Marina Dodigovic
University of La Rioja, Spain
Title: Understanding vocabulary in terms of EFL student needs: What the research says
Abstract: 
Vocabulary is a singularly important aspect of language and language learning. Yet, the EFL teaching practice has often excluded it from purposeful research-based planning, in particular in the area of needs analysis.  Needs analysis is the kind of investigation “curriculum developers use to identify the gap between what learners already know and what they need to know in order to study or work in their specific target environments” (Basturkmen, 2005, p. 15). Failing to determine which vocabulary the students already know and what might be the realistic vocabulary targets for their classes is likely to result in failure to make progress in the target language, an outcome unfortunately too often observed in foreign language settings.  Similarly, failing to examine the extent to which textbook vocabulary addresses the needs of students, more often than not, results in the absence of learning. Finally, vocabulary learning strategies are frequently taken for granted, leaving the students ill equipped for the task. This talk will review the most recent research focusing on vocabulary needs of EFL students and will share personal experiences made in the English language classroom. It will then make recommendations for successful approach to vocabulary-based needs analysis.
Biography: 
Marina Dodigovic, PhD, is an honorary professor of English and TESOL at University of la Rioja. She has taught in MA TESOL programs internationally and conducted relevant research, which is documented in a number of books and peer reviewed journal articles to her name. Her most recent research is directed toward vocabulary learning.