Using Vocabulary CDs For Word Development
Learning vocabulary, through both beginning and advanced levels, is applied through different mediums and tools. Finding the most effective set of tools that work for the needs of each child is essential to the ability to develop and understand reading and communication in a different way. The concept of having different options for teaching vocabulary and words is often questioned by those teaching vocabulary to help with the development of words among children. One tool that has been applied is the use of vocabulary CDs. This particular component is known to provide children with a new way to apply specific words, with both better development of new words, as well as comprehension and application of the words.
The most common use of vocabulary CDs is the application of mnemonics (small rhymes or sayings to aid memory, e.g. “separate a rat” for the spelling of “separate”), which allows children to remember different vocabulary words through the use of different tools. The CDs have capacity to offer memory of words through audio and visual tools, as well as interactive areas, dependent on the type of software that is being used. Doing this is a simplistic way of reaching children with different needs, as well as those that are looking to enhance their vocabulary words and application of the words.
Mnemonics for children is applicable not only to anyone who is learning vocabulary, but is also essential for those that may have difficulties with learning and development at different stages. It has been shown that those with learning and memory problems can use vocabulary CDs and mnemonics to move past the disabilities and into thorough understanding of the vocabulary. Through the systematic teaching, as well as the methods for different types of learning, children are able to apply and understand vocabulary[1].
The capacities reached through the combination of tools with vocabulary CDs, as well as the concept of reaching children who have learning and memory disabilities are further defined for these applications. Specifically, many have found that the use of software, technology, CDs and other forms of learning tools for better comprehension is moving past the traditional educational systems for better learning. For instance, many have found that the use of applying vocabulary on different levels at once supersedes problems with basic learning. When this is limited to concepts such as multiple choice and memorization it doesn’t provide well rounded learning or effective ways to remember vocabulary. Allowing comprehension to be applied at these different levels provides students with more fluency and the ability to apply vocabulary words into daily communication and reading[2].
From disabilities with learning to the need to apply vocabulary on different levels, tools are now available that allow children to advance past the basics of learning and into new understanding of words. The use of vocabulary CDs, as well as technological tools, is a step into the future of learning, which not only gives better learning tools for children, but also new levels of learning and comprehension that can be applied.
[1] King – Sears, Margaret. (1992). “Towards Independence With Keyword Mnemonics.” Remedial and Special Education. (13), (5), pgs. 22 – 33.
[2] Vernon, Phillip. (1962). “The Determinants of Reading Comprehension.” Educational and Psychological Measurement. (22), (2).
