PERCEPTIONS AND NEEDS IN USING EXTENSIVE READING TO DEVELOP ENGLISH READING ABILITY

Abstract

This study aimed to survey from English teachers and students in English Program (EP) and Mini English Program (MEP) in the 4 secondary schools in Songkhla where extensive reading (ER) is not yet applied about their perceptions towards the use of extensive reading to develop reading ability and also their needs to use it. This study employed questionnaires to gather data from all 17 teachers and 130 Mathayomsuksa 3 students, and interviews were conducted with 8 teachers and 8 students. Mean, standard division and t-test were used to calculate quantitative data and the qualitative data were summarized. The results showed that most teachers and students have positive attitudes towards the use of extensive reading. They thought that extensive reading can promote students’ vocabulary, grammar and general knowledge. Apart from enhancing reading ability, ER can develop students’ speaking and writing. Moreover, ER can promote students’ reading habit. The teachers perceived the importance and the advantages of ER more than the students do. The teachers strongly indicated that ER should be included in education curriculum. They also needed the ER teaching manuals and more training about how to use ER in class. The students wanted their teacher to use ER and to provide the materials which suit their interest and their proficiency level. Both teachers and students agreed that ER cannot be applied now due to the time constraints and too many assigned tasks and responsibilities.