Hi James, Thanks for your message - and for introducing WS to your
students.You wrote...

"the literature seems to indicate that word cards are more effective
than vocabulary lists because fixed lists encourage learners to
remember the order in which the words appear rather than the actual
meanings of the words".

well, yes, I'd agree with this when talking about simple lists of
words and translations. The WS notebook addresses this issue in two
main ways....

1. By using "connecting words" rather than translations - to
encourage "real practice" through idea/sentence forming. This
practice discourages rushing from one memory exercise to another -
as is the danger with lists of translations..
2.The WS checking system encourages less practice with "easier"
words - and more repeated practice with more "difficult" words. The
learner will focus on developing new words that are personally more
important. (unlike lists of translations)

Card systems are positive for some people although they are - as you
say - easier to lose ( and harder to manage/with associated
motivational problems). Another big disadvantage of cards, in my
view, is that the repeated physical process of turning over the
cards is likely to distract from the language acquisition/practice
process.....whereas a notebook allows the learner to think/practice
(preferably in L2) in a much more relaxed and concentrated manner.

Ok, all for now - would welcome your feedback/thoughts etc

Best wishes
Will
www.wordsurfing.co.uk