Exploring The Use of Technology in Teaching Vocabulary in Junior High Schools 

Abstract

This study explores the use of technology in language teaching in junior high schools, emphasizing its effects on student involvement and academic achievement. The study was carried out at two schools located in Kecamatan Gunuang Omeh, with four teachers participating. Data were gathered by classroom observations and interviews to comprehend the implementation and results of technology-enhanced educational methods. The results indicated that the integration of technology markedly enhanced student engagement and academic performance. Interactive platforms such as Wordwall and Kahoot! offered stimulating activities and competitive games that encouraged students to engage actively in vocabulary development. The Quizlet flashcard technique also assisted students by improving their capacity to memorize vocabulary efficiently. Teachers exhibited creative approaches in incorporating these technologies into their pedagogical practices, resulting in a more engaging and effective vocabulary acquisition experience. This study highlights the transformative capacity of technology in vocabulary teaching. Nonetheless, it highlights the importance for sufficient infrastructural support and extensive teacher training for successfully using the benefits of technology in educational environments. These processes are crucial for ensuring the efficient utilization of technology tools to improve the quality of teaching and learning in educational settings.