The use of internet-based dictionary in reading activity for English language education department students

Abstract

Internet-based (online) dictionaries are virtual dictionaries that are now often used by people, especially students, to ease their reading activities. They tend to prefer online dictionaries more because of its efficiency and flexibility. Therefore, the researcher compiled this research to analyze the responses and reasons of online dictionary users for English Language Education Department (ELED) students at University of Muhammadiyah Malang. The researcher applied both qualitative and quantitative research method to observe the opinion of ELED students when using online dictionary in the reading activity. Therefore, she used questionnaires and interview sessions as instruments to get more depth information. The result of this study shows online dictionary is certainly the best media that makes ELED students effectively improve in reading activities. It gives the reasons why they prefer an online dictionary to ease their reading activities. Mainly it is because of its sophisticated features given by these online dictionaries. Yet, users need to give limits in their usage of online dictionaries to prevent them from being addicted to it. Using an online dictionary can also help develop their English reading skills.