Researching Users and Uses of Dictionaries

This chapter examines available investigative methods, and the profiles, preferences, requirements and strategies of dictionary users. It reviews user studies conducted over the past fifty years, reporting on what is currently known about the advantages and disadvantages of different approaches, but also drawing attention to areas that remain under-researched. Very little is yet known about the habits of less-educated dictionary users, for example, or about the everyday use of mobile e-dictionaries. The ultimate motivation for dictionary use research is the desire to help users consult dictionaries more successfully. Findings therefore need to be applied to learning contexts, and should also influence the design of new, and better, dictionaries.