Exploring the Effects of Three Modes of Extensive Reading on Vocabulary Gain and Reading Rate

Abstract

Previous extensive reading (ER) studies have focused almost exclusively on English language learners and have tended to be limited by their lack of control over how the ER treatment is conducted and assessed. Furthermore, few studies have investigated the possible effects of different styles of ER, including extensive listening (EL) and audio-assisted extensive reading (AER). Accordingly, the goal of this study was to investigate the possible effects of monitored ER, EL, and AER on the reading rate, comprehension, and vocabulary acquisition of adult learners of Japanese as a foreign language (JFL). Using an experimental design, we completed data collection for the second year of this 3-year project (which currently includes data from 144 JFL learners). Current data indicate mixed results from these three modes of ER. Although the differences were not statistically significant, the AER group showed the greatest gains in reading rate and vocabulary gain, with the ER group slightly outpacing the AER group on the comprehension score. The results reflect a positive impact overall from the different modes of ER, suggesting that incorporating ER-related activities in the curriculum will benefit learners. These interim results indicate that AER-type activities, reading along while listening, tend toward larger gains in vocabulary and reading rate.