The Technological Influence on Lexicography: The Advantages of Electronic Dictionaries Over Paper Dictionaries

Abstract

Traditional paper dictionaries faced numerous challenges, ranging from limited spaces to the lack of comprehensive explanations of words meaning. Creators of electronic dictionaries addressed these challenges, aiming to provide solutions to these long-standing issues. The main interest of this study was to explore the implications of technology in lexicography, viewing how electronic lexicography advocators have addressed the limitations of traditional paper-based dictionaries. as well as examining the English Language department students` perspectives and attitudes towards the use of electronic dictionaries and paper dictionaries.  

Participants of the study were 83 English language students, a Google form questionnaire  reached the target sample by assisting  the heads of the English language departments from different faculties at University of Benghazi: Faculty of Arts and Science - Al-Abyar campus and Al-Marj campus and the Faculty of Education – Benghazi campus

The aim of the questionnaire was to discover insights from the participants side, towards different aspects, including what type of dictionaries they prefer to use what are the advantages and disadvantages of each type of dictionaries. Findings of this study revealed strong preference of electronic dictionaries among participants, according to the participants electronic dictionaries are more flexible and dynamic and easy to access however they also acknowledge that paper dictionaries still hold some value particularly in regard of the fact the paper dictionaries