English Learners’ Perceptions of the Verb-Centered Learning Method based on Dik’s Functional Grammar

This paper introduces the verb-centered learning method (VCLM) for English learners and explores their perceptions of its effectiveness. The VCLM is based on functional grammar (FG) proposed by Dik (1978). Unlike formalist frameworks like Chomsky’s, Dik’s FG integrates semantic, syntactic, and pragmatic functions to analyze sentence structure. A survey of 37 college students from B university in Busan revealed generally positive perceptions of the VCLM after the VCLM training. The results showed that the easier participants find the VCLM, the more positive their perspectives are regarding their comprehension of English sentence structure and meaning. Additionally, their perspectives on how it will impact their future TOEIC scores are also more optimistic.