Dictionary look-up strategies and the bilingualised learner's dictionary

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The research offers insights into look-up behavior, particularly regarding look-up strategies. A coding scheme comprising 51 executive, cognitive, and metacognitive operations was developed from think-aloud data, leading to the identification of seven strategy types: Ignoring, Assuming, Minimizing, Checking, Paraphrasing, Stretching, and Maximizing. Findings revealed a preference for one part of bilingualised entries—either L1 translation equivalents or L2 definitions—rather than both. Additionally, factors such as language preference, proficiency, target words, and L2 definitions influenced the use of these entries to varying degrees. Learners exhibited both common and unique patterns in strategy use; while most tried a range of strategies, one learner consistently relied on a single type. The frequency of strategy use varied among individuals, with not all strategies being employed equally. The most commonly used strategy was maximizing, utilized in 112 out of 264 look-ups. This suggests that learners tend to favor familiar or perceived effective strategies, often neglecting to explore other potentially effective options.