Effects of vocabulary learning materials on vocabulary development in promoting speaking skills among Malaysian Police tourist officers

The aim of this study is to examine the effects of using vocabulary learning materials in developing vocabulary skills and enhancing speaking skills. The study used the mixed-methods research approach. The quantitative data were obtained using English vocabulary tests using pre-test and post-test, speaking skills rubric, and the questionnaire. The qualitative data were obtained using semi-structured interviews. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. For the descriptive analysis, means, percentages, and standard deviations were used to analyse the data, while for the inferential analysis t-tests and ANOVA were used. The qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings for quantitative analysis showed that the significant difference between pre-test and post-test was at 0.01 level. In addition, the relationship between vocabulary development and communication skills was at 0.02 level of significance. As for the qualitative analysis, the findings showed that the majority of the participants agreed vocabulary learning materials were effective in improving English vocabulary skills and speaking skills. Thus, it could be concluded that tourist police speaking skills improved when their vocabulary development improved. It is suggested that the use of vocabulary learning materials affects the development of vocabulary skills and enhances speaking skills.