ERIC Number: EJ1477100
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025
Pages: 20
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1017-7108
EISSN: EISSN-2671-9312
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Reconceptualizing the Role of Oral Language Predictors in Korean EFL Learners' Reading Comprehension
Jeeyoung Park; Yusun Kang
English Teaching, v80 n2 p83-102 2025
Oral language comprehension (OLC) and vocabulary depth are widely recognized as key predictors of reading comprehension. However, research has either provided a limited representation of OLC or failed to acknowledge the distinctive predictive nature of vocabulary depth. This study investigates the combined contributions of OLC, conceptualized as a unified composite of foundational language variables and compares its effects on reading comprehension to vocabulary depth, while accounting for writing abilities. A total of 169 advanced Korean university EFL students were tested on listening comprehension, grammar knowledge, vocabulary breadth, vocabulary depth, and reading comprehension in English. SEM analyses revealed that both OLC and vocabulary depth made unique contributions to reading comprehension, with OLC demonstrating relatively stronger predictive power. Writing abilities did not show significant effects when OLC and vocabulary depth were considered in the same model. These findings underscore the independent predictive roles of OLC and vocabulary depth in L2 reading comprehension and highlight the importance of integrating these constructs into EFL pedagogical practices.
Descriptors: Oral Language, Reading Comprehension, English (Second Language), Second Language Instruction, Second Language Learning, Vocabulary Development, Listening Comprehension, College Students, Comparative Analysis, Predictor Variables, Advanced Students, Grammar, Writing Skills, Teaching Methods, Foreign Countries
Korea Association of Teachers of English. 6105 English Education Department, Chinju National University of Education, 369beon-gil 3, Jinyangho-ro, Jinju, Gyeongsangnam-do, 52673, Republic of Korea. Tel: +82-42-629-7381; Fax: +82-42-629-7320; e-mail: katejournal29@gmail.com; Web site: https://journal.kate.or.kr/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: South Korea
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A