Effect of Static Infographics on Vocabulary Gain and Retention of Iranian Intermediate EFL Learners

Infographics are visual representations of information intended to be presented quickly and clearly. This study examined the impact of static infographics on vocabulary acquisition and retention among Iranian intermediate English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. Sixty learners from the Bayan Institute in Abadan, Iran, were divided into a Static group (SG) and a Control group (CG) through convenience sampling, with classes conducted online via Jitsi Meet. A teacher-made vocabulary pretest based on the course content was given to both groups before instruction. While both groups received new vocabulary from the Touchstone book, the SG learned through static infographics featuring pictures and texts, whereas the CG used traditional methods. Finally, a posttest was administered to both groups and three weeks later, a delayed posttest was conducted to assess vocabulary retention. All tests were teacher-made and conducted via Digi Survey, with their validity confirmed by two TEFL experts from Islamic Azad University in Abadan, Iran. Results showed that both methods improved vocabulary acquisition and retention, but the SG significantly outperformed the CG. Students who received vocabulary instruction through static infographics demonstrated significantly better vocabulary gains and retention than those taught using traditional textbook methods. The findings are helpful for language instructors because this type of study leads to more effective teaching methodologies and better criteria for selecting materials.