IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature
Vol. 13 No. 2 (2025): IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Lite

Exploring EFL Students’ Vocabulary Acquisition Strategies through English Movies

Siti Annisa (Unknown)
Ventje Jany Kalukar (Unknown)
Aridah Aridah (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
24 Oct 2025

Abstract

This study explores the vocabulary acquisition strategies used by EFL (English as a Foreign Language) students through English movies. Grounded in Krashen’s Input Hypothesis and Mayer’s Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning, the research investigates how learners engage with movie content to enhance their vocabulary. Using a qualitative method, the study involved two sixth-semester English Department students at a public university in Indonesia. Data were collected through semi-structured interview sessions and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings reveal that students employ several strategies, including using English subtitles, noticing and repeating unfamiliar words, choosing genre-specific content, applying new vocabulary in writing and speaking, and rewinding scenes for better comprehension. In total, five key strategies were identified. These approaches helped learners connect vocabulary with context, improve pronunciation, and promote long-term retention. The use of multimedia, particularly movies, created an engaging and low-anxiety environment that supported incidental learning and increased motivation. The study concludes that learner-driven strategies supported by multimedia input significantly contribute to vocabulary development and suggests that educators integrate movie-based activities in language learning environments to enhance students’ vocabulary acquisition, contextual understanding, and motivation.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ideas

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

IDEAS Journal is published twice a year in the months of June and December (P-ISSN 2338-4778 and E-ISSN 2548-4192); it presents articles on English language teaching and learning, linguistics, and literature. The contents include analyses, studies and application of theories, research report, ...