Abstract:

The acquisition of a foreign language vocabulary for specific purposes, as part of the foreign language system, is a dynamic process that requires methodological analysis. When the foreign language is not a major subject in university education, the students’ main objective is to acquire in an accessible and attractive way as much as possible language knowledge in the subject area they study, so that to be able to compete in the labor market.

This requires optimization of the learning content in order to establish the foundations of sustainable lexical knowledge since the development of vocabulary stimulates cognitive growth and, according to proponents of the lexical approach, ‘lexis is the basis of the language’, as well as ‘language consists of grammaticalised lexis – not lexicalized grammar’ [Lewis, 1997].

In this respect, a foreign language vocabulary application has been developed for the students majoring in ‘Print Communications’, SULSIT, Bulgaria. The objective is for the students to encounter and acquire the vocabulary used in the media in its various aspects – general and specialized texts on the subject, idioms, quotes, humor, authentic materials and others.

On the other hand, the foreign language learning process must be modernized in order to be compatible with the globalizing world, and the new technological era requires that language teachers possess adequate knowledge of how to integrate appropriately the new technologies in the learning process. In terms of content and organization of the learning process, this integration can be presented in a diverse and provocative way.
Educational technologies give a dynamic and creative touch of the learning process and can be successfully used in the methodological practice of English language. Their application in foreign language teaching expands vastly the possibilities for a more stimulating and interactive acquisition of English vocabulary for specific purposes, because through them learning becomes an authentic and reflexive process of accumulation of knowledge.

Keywords:

Vocabulary for specific purposes, vocabulary acquisition, English in the Media, interactive educational technologies.