A unique aspect of the present study is the collaborative learning potential of flashcard use. This research has
demonstrated that while learning vocabulary with flashcards is considered more of an individual task, this
intentional learning technique can be repurposed for collaborative learning tasks, with a sound instructional design,
to allow for better peer support. Likewise, Newton (2001) put forward various design options for vocabulary
learning techniques that promote collaborative learning, among which making flashcards is recommended as one
practical approach. From the CSCL perspective, instructors may incorporate digital flashcard tools to have
students work collaboratively and expose them to the interactive use of vocabulary, such as co-constructing
vocabulary flashcards, testing each other on new words, and negotiating word meanings in communication. Ideally,
the proposed technique of learning vocabulary deliberately with digital flashcards can and should be used to
provide collaborative learning opportunities for lexical development in and out of class.