Jurnal Celtic
Vol. 13 No. 1 (2026): Vol. 13 No. 1 (2026): June 2026

Implementing translation techniques to develop students' vocabulary mastery: Evidence from an Indonesian vocational school

Nur’ Afiva Rahmayani (Department of English Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Tadulako, Palu, Indonesia)
Nur Sehang Thamrin (Department of English Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Tadulako, Palu, Indonesia)
Nirwana Nirwana (Department of English Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Tadulako, Palu, Indonesia)
Jamiluddin Jamiluddin (Department of English Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Tadulako, Palu, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
12 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study explores the implementation of translation techniques to enhance students’ vocabulary mastery in an Indonesian vocational school context. The research was conducted with eleventh-grade students at one of the state vocational schools in Palu, Indonesia focusing on three-word classes: nouns, verbs, and adjectives as essential components of English proficiency. Employing a quasi-experimental design, two groups were involved: an experimental class taught using translation-based strategies and a control class following the standard curriculum. Vocabulary mastery was measured through a researchers-developed test consisting of multiple-choice and fill-in-the-blank items. Instruction in the experimental group integrated literal and transposition translation techniques, combined with contextual reading and guided practice. The findings revealed that students exposed to translation techniques demonstrated significant improvement in vocabulary comprehension, retention, and contextual usage compared to the control group. The study concludes that translation serves as a practical and pedagogical tool for vocational education, bridging learners’ native and target languages while fostering confidence and engagement. Implications highlight the importance of integrating translation into English instruction for vocational students, as it supports both academic achievement and workplace readiness. These results provide valuable insights for teachers, curriculum developers, and future researchers seeking innovative strategies to strengthen vocabulary instruction in applied educational settings.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

celtic

Publisher

Subject

Description

CELTIC is published twice a year, in June and December. This journal welcomes articles in the form of research reports or library research on Literature (English), Linguistics (English, Indonesian), Culture (English, Indonesia) and Teaching (English, ...