Mahnaz Aliyar

Read about the research experiences of Mahnaz Aliyar, a PhD student in Applied Linguistics.

Woman standing in front of bush with pink flowers

Thesis title

Incidental Acquisition of Novel L2 Vocabulary from Authentic Materials

Supervisors

AProf Anna Siyanova and Dr Stephen Skalicky

Abstract

My research focuses on incidental vocabulary learning through exposure to authentic materials, including novels, songs, and comic books. In one of my studies, for example, I compare the effectiveness of reading versus listening to a novel/audiobook in learning L2 Italian vocabulary. Despite its critical role in language acquisition, listening has been under-researched in second language acquisition. While much of the existing research has concentrated on vocabulary learning from reading or simplified texts, my study investigates incidental vocabulary learning from an authentic audiobook, and how this compares to learning from reading an authentic novel.


One key aspect of my research is the examination of the comparative effectiveness of these modalities in the acquisition of multi-word expressions versus single words. Understanding the nuances of how different types of authentic materials contribute to vocabulary learning have important pedagogical implications, informing best practices for language instruction. My study, therefore, not only seeks to expand the theoretical knowledge in the field of vocabulary acquisition but also aims to provide practical insights for educators and language learners.

Biography

Mahnaz Aliyar is currently pursuing her PhD at Victoria University of Wellington, where she is investigating incidental acquisition of novel L2 vocabulary from authentic materials. With a Master of Advanced Studies in Linguistics from KU Leuven and an International Master's Degree in Language, Society, and Communication from the University of Bologna, she has a strong foundation in second language acquisition, multilingual education, as well as language policy and ideology. Her research interests include second language acquisition, vocabulary teaching and learning, multi-word expressions, applied sociolinguistics, and quantitative research methods.

Presentations/Invited Talks

Aliyar, M., & Siyanova-Chanturia, A. (2024, December). Incidental Acquisition of Vocabulary: The Effects of Imagery versus Glossing [Conference presentation]. Linguistic Society of New Zealand Conference. Christchurch, New Zealand.


Aliyar, M., & Siyanova-Chanturia, A. (2024, Novembre) Picture versus Glossing: Which one is more beneficial for incidental vocabulary learning? [Conference presentation]. Applied Linguistics ALAA/ALANZ/ALTAANZ Conference. Launceston, Australia.


Aliyar, M., Siyanova-Chanturia, A., & Skalicky, S. (2024, September). Comparing the Efficacy of Reading and Listening for Incidental Vocabulary Learning [Conference presentation]. Hiroshima Lexical Research Forum. Hiroshima, Japan.


Aliyar, M. (2024, June). Linguistic landscape of Iran [Conference presentation]. Linguistic Landscape 15. Wellington, New Zealand.


Aliyar, M., & Siyanova-Chanturia, A. (2024, April). Do comics facilitate incidental vocabulary learning? [Conference presentation]. CLESOL. Wellington, New Zealand.


Aliyar, M., Yan, H., & Siyanova-Chanturia, A. (2023, December). Incidental vocabulary learning through reading comics [Conference presentation]. Vocab@Vic. Wellington, New Zealand.


Aliyar, M., & Siyanova-Chanturia, A. (2023, December). Incidental acquisition of novel L2 Italian vocabulary from authentic materials [Conference presentation]. Vocab@Vic. Wellington, New Zealand.


Aliyar, M., & Siyanova-Chanturia, A. (2023, November). Reading versus listening to authentic materials in L2 Italian: What leads to greater vocabulary learning gains? [Conference presentation] PHRAME. University for Foreigners of Perugia, Italy.


Aliyar, M., & Siyanova-Chanturia, A. (2023, October). Incidental acquisition of L2 vocabulary from authentic input [Invited talk]. 7th National Conference “Knowledge brings us together”. Comahue University, Argentina.


Aliyar, M., & Siyanova-Chanturia, A. (2023, September). Acquisition of L2 Italian Vocabulary through Listening to Songs [Conference presentation]. Hiroshima Lexical Research Forum. Hiroshima, Japan.


Aliyar, M., Yan, H., & Siyanova-Chanturia, A. (2023, September). Incidental Vocabulary Learning from Reading a Graphic Novel [Conference presentation]. Hiroshima Lexical Research Forum. Hiroshima, Japan.


Aliyar, M. (2023, March). A Comparison of Learners’ and Native Speakers’ English Academic Writing [Conference presentation]. 7th International Conference on Advanced Research in Education, Teaching, and Learning. Berlin, Germany.