ABSTRACT

Name : Azila Dwi Irmaningsih
NIM : 205210064
Tittle : Students’ Perceptions of Vocabulary Self-Collection Strategy (VSS) in
a Vocational High School in Jambi

This qualitative phenomenological study explored grade XI students’ perceptions
of the Vocabulary Self-Collection Strategy (VSS) in learning English vocabulary
at SMKN 9 Muaro Jambi. Six students participated in VSS-based English learning
activities. Data were collected through observation and semi-structured
interviews. Data analysis used Miles and Huberman’s (1994) interactive model.
The findings indicated that students demonstrated clear cognitive understanding of
the VSS procedures, including identifying unfamiliar words, discussing meanings
collaboratively, and recording vocabulary items. Affective responses were
positive, with students expressing increased motivation, engagement, and
confidence in a collaborative classroom setting. Evaluatively, students perceived
VSS as more effective and relevant to their vocational context than traditional
vocabulary learning methods. However, challenges emerged in selecting suitable
words from lengthy texts and the need for ongoing teacher guidance. Overall,
VSS was perceived as an innovative and practical approach that enhanced
students’ comprehension, motivation, and vocabulary retention when
implemented with appropriate support and contextualized materials.
Keywords : Students’ Perception, Vocabulary, Vocabulary Self-Collection
Strategy (VSS), Vocational High School, Qualitative Research