This ongoing project consists of a series of studies on the use of semantic feature analysis techniques for learning vocabulary in a second language (L2). Traditionally, semantic feature analysis is a treatment technique used to improve word retrieval ability in people with aphasia or other acquired language disorders. It involves generating semantic features, or descriptors, for the target words (Boyle, 2010). [1]
The studies conducted so far have investigated one-on-one training of abstract words in L2 English and L2 Spanish (Sandberg et al., 2019) and classroom-based trainings of abstract words (Kerschen, 2018, conference paper) as well as concrete words (Kerschen, 2022, conference paper) in L2 German.
[1] Boyle, M. (2010). Semantic feature analysis treatment for aphasic word retrieval impairments: What’s in a name?. Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation, 17(6), 411-422.
Publications:
- Sandberg C., Carpenter, E., Kerschen, K., Paolieri, D., & Jackson, C.N. (2019). The benefits of abstract word training on productive vocabulary knowledge among second language learners. Applied Psycholinguistics, 40(6), 1331-1362. DOI
Conference Presentations:
- Kerschen, K. (2022). Semantic feature analysis training as a means to improve productive L2 vocabulary knowledge. Paper at the American Association of Applied Linguistics (AAAL) Conference, Pittsburgh, PA. 19-22 March.
- Kerschen, K. (2018). Abstract word training as a means to develop productive vocabulary knowledge in a second language classroom. Poster at the Multidisciplinary Approaches to Child and Adult Language Acquisition Symposium, State College, PA, 4-5 October.
- Kerschen, K., Sandberg, C., Carpenter, E., & Jackson, C.N. (2018). The effect of abstract word training on productive L2 vocabulary knowledge: A classroom-based study. Paper presentation at GLAC, State College, PA, 11-12 May.
- Carpenter, E., Sandberg, C., Kerschen, K., & Jackson, C.N. (2017). The benefits of abstract word training on productive vocabulary knowledge among second language learners. Paper at the Second Language Research Forum (SLRF), Columbus, OH, 12-15 October.
Collaborators: Chaleece Sandberg (Penn State), Carrie Jackson (Penn State), Erin Carpenter (Boston University)