BENEFITS OF INTEGRATING EXTENSIVE READING IN TEACHING/LEARNING FOREIGN LANGUAGES AT TERTIARY LEVEL
BENEFITS OF INTEGRATING EXTENSIVE READING IN TEACHING/LEARNING FOREIGN LANGUAGES AT TERTIARY LEVEL

Summary/Abstract: Extensive reading (ER) is a widely used practice in teaching foreign languages to learners ranging from primary school pupils to adults. Full immersion in second language input through reading compelling texts has been proved to generate multiple positive effects on L2 learning such as: reading fluency development; increase in motivation and attitude improvement; writing skill development; learner autonomy enhancement; and the list could go on. The present study is an investigation into practical cases of L2 ER programmes at the tertiary level as published in academic literature with the aim of highlighting their documented benefits for university students. Research studies using a preand post-test design identified significant improvement in the case of students undergoing an ER treatment as compared to students who took part in a skill-based instruction. Data collection procedures relying on questionnaires pinpointed positive attitudes such as comfort, reduced anxiety, perceived linguistic and intellectual gains. In addition, the freedom of selecting the reading materials, as well as participation in interactive reading-based tasks count among valuable motivational factors that support reading.

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