A Need Analysis of Kadimel Module for the Malay Vocabulary Learning among Vocational College Students in Malaysia

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

Vocabulary is an essential aspect of Malay Language learning. According to Wilkins (1922), without grammar very little can be conveyed, without vocabulary nothing can be conveyed. Hence, it is important for teachers to emphasis on the most effective way to aid the students in vocabulary learning and acquisition. The advancement of technology has opened a new door for language learning providers and instructors to teach vocabulary for language learners using online technological interventions, such as the Quizlet applications. Yet, little studies in the literature focused on the design and development of online tools in the delivery of Malay Language subject, particularly on the vocabulary aspect, for vocational students in this country. This needs analysis study aimed to firstly understand the current practices and emerging issues in the teaching and facilitation of Malay Language subject in vocational colleges in Malaysia. Then, it sought to identify the needs in developing a specific vocabulary module of Malay language subject for vocational students, namely the Kadimel module. The multi-method research was employed, i.e through survey and quiz involving teachers and students from different vocational colleges in this country, in order to to gather both quantitative and qualitative inputs for identifying the students' and teachers' needs in developing the Malay vocabulary learning module. Findings revealed that although there are a variety of printed teaching resources and materials available for the Malay Language subject, there are certain issues and problems throughout the teaching and facilitation of the subject to the vocational students, including the lack of uniformity in the use of the resources. Furthermore, there are also issues related to the students' learning aspects, such as difficulties in vocabulary learning, low motivation in learning grammatical aspect, and lack of understanding and poor quiz achievement in the usage and writing skills for vocabulary aspects. Further findings outlined that the requirements for developing the Malay language vocabulary learning module include learning reinforcement, interactive and collaborative learning, simple, flexible, and effective content, as well as uniformity of references and content.