In direct vocabulary learning, the learners do exercises and activities that focus their attention on vocabulary, while in indirect vocabulary learning, the learners' attention is usually focused on the message. The communicative approach to language acquisition emphasizes the indirect implicit learning of vocabulary. Our research question is: Is direct learning helpful apart from indirect learning in the communicative approach? Our experiment was based on the actual Communicative English class in three parallel groups from Grade One who are all majoring in English. Our conclusion is: apart from indirect vocabulary learning in the communicative approach to language acquisition, direct learning (doing vocabulary exercises at least) is helpful to learners (at least not so advanced learners in the aspect of vocabulary) in their productive capacity of vocabulary. In short, direct learning is a helpful adjunct to natural indirect learning in context.
With the improvement of the economy,society,culture and education in china,English is playing an ever more im portant role for students,especially for college students.Unlike the students of the severely disciplined years,they are reluctant to take the rigorous training in college and they will take job after graduation,where they will meet some foreign experts and read foreign reference materials.They must learn how to read English effectively and talk with foreign experts fluently.If they do not learn to listen effectively,they will be unable to take part in oral communication.Therefore,students'listening ability training can never be neglected in college English.
