THE IMPLEMENTATION OF GOOGLE TRANSLATE TOOL TO IMPROVE ENGLISH VOCABULARY

Google Translate (GT), a neural machine translation tool developed by Google, has been widely recognized as a non-pedagogical resource for enhancing language learning, particularly vocabulary acquisition. This study builds upon existing research to explore the impact of GT on vocabulary development among English Language Education Department (ELED) 2023 students at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang, emphasizing its role in improving language skills and contributing to academic success. The research aims to identify strategies for effectively implementing Google Translate to enhance students' vocabulary skills. It addresses the research problems by examining students' perceptions of GT as a learning tool and their preferred strategies for using it to overcome vocabulary challenges. The study also investigates the effectiveness of GT compared to other translation tools. Employing a qualitative descriptive research design, data were collected through observations, questionnaires, and interviews with ELED students in their third semester. The instruments focused on identifying students' strategies, including using GT’s synonym feature, translating word-by-word, and avoiding abbreviations for better results. The findings reveal that GT significantly aids vocabulary development when used strategically. Key strategies include leveraging GT's synonym suggestions, translating word-by-word for accuracy, and minimizing the use of informal language. The study concludes that GT is a valuable tool for vocabulary enhancement and provides actionable recommendations for teachers, students, and future researchers to optimize its use.