More than Words: Integrating TOEIC vocabulary into EFL writing exercises for university students

Tom Pals and Mark Sheehan

Dr. Pals and Dr. Sheehan shared the online TOEIC vocabulary system they developed and are using at Shizuoka University of Arts & Science. In a "hands on" demonstration held at their university members got an inside look at the system and how it is incorporated into almost all English classes in the department. Students go through three cycles of questions throughout the term. In each cycle students answer 70 questions in different content areas. The program then analyzes the results and determines the three weakest sections in which students are given additional questions and need to score 60 correct to pass, thus reinforcing the work in their weak areas. Once the students complete three cycles they can take the TOEIC examination and if they achieve a prescribed score (based on their projected abilities) they can gain extra-credit.

Dr. Pals & Dr. Sheehan discussed how the program was conceived and incorporated, how it was received by faculty and students, and facilitated discussion on various aspects of the system and TOEIC in general. Judging by the lengthy Q&A most members seemed very eager to learn about the system and hearing about the fruits of the presenter's labour.