Spaced Repetition and Multimedia Encoding in Digital Vocabulary Learning: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Memrise for Adolescent EFL Learners
Keywords:
Spaced repetition, Multimedia encoding, Digital vocabulary learning, Memrise, EFL learnersAbstract
This study addresses a key gap in digital vocabulary research by examining how spaced repetition and multimedia encoding operate simultaneously in enhancing adolescent EFL learners’ vocabulary retention. The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Memrise application in strengthening lexical mastery through cognitively informed digital learning. Using a quantitative pre-experimental design, the study involved 26 junior secondary students who completed vocabulary pre- and post-tests as primary data sources. Statistical analysis included descriptive measures, normality testing, and paired-sample t-tests supported by effect size calculations. Results showed a significant improvement in vocabulary performance, indicating substantial benefits of distributed review, retrieval practice, and multimedia-supported encoding. The findings highlight important implications for MALL-based pedagogy, suggesting that Memrise can effectively complement classroom instruction and foster learner engagement. The study encourages further research using larger samples, comparative designs, and longitudinal approaches to deepen understanding of the mechanisms underlying digital vocabulary learning.
References
Al Shihri, H. B. S. G., Mahfoodh, O. H. A., & Bin Mohd Ayub Khan, A. B. (2025). Examining the effect of the integration of multiple MALL applications on EFL students’ academic vocabulary acquisition: a mixed-methods study. Cogent Education, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2025.2473229
Al-Abri, A., Ranjbaran Madiseh, F., & Morady Moghaddam, M. (2025). Exploring Learning-Oriented Assessment in Enhancing Students’ Lexical Fluency Through MALL. The Asia-Pacific Education Researcher, 34(1), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40299-024-00832-7
Alisoy, H., & Sadigzade, Z. (2025). Comparative Analysis of Mobile Applications and Traditional Methods in Vocabulary Acquisition. Educational Process International Journal, 17(1). https://doi.org/10.22521/edupij.2025.17.322
Bellegarda, M., García-Gámez, A. B., & Macizo, P. (2025). The impact of relevant environmental sounds on foreign language word learning. Bilingualism: Language and Cognition, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1366728925100394
Çeken, B., & Taşkın, N. (2022). Multimedia learning principles in different learning environments: a systematic review. Smart Learning Environments, 9(1), 19. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40561-022-00200-2
Jiang, A. L., & Zhang, L. J. (2023). Understanding knowledge construction in a Chinese university EMI classroom: A translanguaging perspective. System, 114, 103024. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.system.2023.103024
Li, D., Xia, S., & Guo, K. (2025). Investigating L2 learners’ text-to-video resemiotisation in AI-enhanced digital multimodal composing. Computer Assisted Language Learning, 1–32. https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2025.2481402
Li, W., Yu, J., Zhang, Z., & Liu, X. (2022). Dual Coding or Cognitive Load? Exploring the Effect of Multimodal Input on English as a Foreign Language Learners’ Vocabulary Learning. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.834706
Lipnevich, A. A., Lopera-Oquendo, C., Calik, B., Shu, L., & Tay, H. Y. (2025). Exploring links among feedback, emotions, and behavioural engagement among secondary school Singaporean students. Asia Pacific Education Review. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12564-025-10086-7
Lomholt, R., & Qvortrup, A. (2025). Categorising student behaviours as manifest indicators of learning engagement: a contextual approach. European Journal of Psychology of Education, 40(4), 121. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10212-025-01034-5
Maceviciute, E., Manžuch, Z., & Gudinavičius, A. (2023). The role of curiosity triggers and features in digital literacy training. Library & Information Science Research, 45(4), 101268. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lisr.2023.101268
Marano, G., Kotzalidis, G. D., Lisci, F. M., Anesini, M. B., Rossi, S., Barbonetti, S., Cangini, A., Ronsisvalle, A., Artuso, L., Falsini, C., Caso, R., Mandracchia, G., Brisi, C., Traversi, G., Mazza, O., Pola, R., Sani, G., Mercuri, E. M., Gaetani, E., & Mazza, M. (2025). The Neuroscience Behind Writing: Handwriting vs. Typing—Who Wins the Battle? Life, 15(3), 345. https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030345
Margheri, V., Martucci, A., Bei, E., Graziani, D., Scatigna, S., Guazzini, A., & Pecini, C. (2025). Child engagement during interaction with digital and robotic activities: a systematic review. Frontiers in Education, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2025.1568028
Mehdipour-Kolour, D., & Ali, M. B. (2024). Examining the effects of two cognitive styles (field dependence vs. field independence) on learners’ mobile-assisted vocabulary acquisition. Journal of China Computer-Assisted Language Learning, 4(2), 225–246. https://doi.org/10.1515/jccall-2023-0021
Mesmer, H. A., & Kambach, A. (2022). Beyond Labels and Agendas: Research Teachers need to Know about Phonics and Phonological Awareness. The Reading Teacher, 76(1), 62–72. https://doi.org/10.1002/trtr.2102
Namaziandost, E., & Çelik, F. (2025). Simulated uncertainty in gamified language learning: Investigating resilience, academic buoyancy, and on-task focus through the lens of expectancy-value theory and operant conditioning. Learning and Motivation, 92, 102196. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lmot.2025.102196
Noetel, M., Griffith, S., Delaney, O., Harris, N. R., Sanders, T., Parker, P., del Pozo Cruz, B., & Lonsdale, C. (2022). Multimedia Design for Learning: An Overview of Reviews With Meta-Meta-Analysis. Review of Educational Research, 92(3), 413–454. https://doi.org/10.3102/00346543211052329
Patra, I., Shanmugam, N., Ismail, S. M., & Mandal, G. (2022). An Investigation of EFL Learners’ Vocabulary Retention and Recall in a Technology-Based Instructional Environment: Focusing on Digital Games. Education Research International, 2022, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/7435477
Polat, H., Taş, N., & Yıldırım, Ö. (2025). Multimedia learning: current themes, trends and future directions. New Review of Hypermedia and Multimedia, 31(4), 277–306. https://doi.org/10.1080/13614568.2025.2522104
Qasserras, L. (2024). THE ROLE OF VISUAL LEARNING AIDS ACROSS DIVERSE LEARNING STYLES IN HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION. European Journal of Applied Linguistics Studies, 7(2). https://doi.org/10.46827/ejals.v7i2.550
Shi, Y., & Tsai, C. (2024). Fostering vocabulary learning: a mind mapping app enhances the performance of EFL learners. Computer Assisted Language Learning, 37(4), 634–686. https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2022.2052905
Singh, M., Bangay, S., Grossek, H., & Sajjanhar, A. (2023). Forest Classroom: A Case Study of Educational Augmented Reality Design to Facilitate Classroom Engagement. Multimodal Technologies and Interaction, 7(5), 46. https://doi.org/10.3390/mti7050046
Torgersen, G.-E., & Boe, O. (2021). Which Tools in Multimedia Are Best for Learning Outcomes? A Study Grounded in Cognitive Load Structures. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.545335
Trypke, M., Stebner, F., & Wirth, J. (2023). Two types of redundancy in multimedia learning: a literature review. Frontiers in Psychology, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1148035
Tu, H.-Y., & Lee, S. W.-Y. (2025). Curiosity, Interest, and Engagement: Unpacking Their Roles in Students’ Learning within a Virtual Game Environment. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 62(8), 1775–1799. https://doi.org/10.1177/07356331241277904
van Aswegen, E. C., & Pendergast, D. (2023). The impact of interest: an emergent model of interest development in the early years. Early Child Development and Care, 193(13–14), 1335–1349. https://doi.org/10.1080/03004430.2023.2245575
Wong, K. M., & Samudra, P. G. (2021). L2 vocabulary learning from educational media: extending dual-coding theory to dual-language learners. Computer Assisted Language Learning, 34(8), 1182–1204. https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2019.1666150
Wu, X., Li, Y., Zu, T., Hutson, J., Loschky, L. C., & Rebello, N. S. (2025). Using multimedia hints to facilitate conceptual problem solving in physics: investigating the effects of multiple modalities. Frontiers in Education, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2025.1568406
Yuan, Y. (2024). An empirical study of the efficacy of AI chatbots for English as a foreign language learning in primary education. Interactive Learning Environments, 32(10), 6774–6789. https://doi.org/10.1080/10494820.2023.2282112
Downloads
Published
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2025 Yuli Yandira, Mutmainnah Marzuki, Andi Eritme Yustika Abrar (Author)

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.








