A study of reading strategies used by learners of Chinese as a second language
What is it about?
This qualitative study investigate how Chinese second language readers used strategies to enhance their comprehension. Through think-aloud and recall protocols, close observations, and interviews, this study revealed 26 comprehension strategies used by three readers who succeed in reading a Chinese text. It also reported their reading procedures and several common strategies they used effectively, such as using context to interpret unfamiliar words, monitoring by using sub-strategies, identifying important information, and skipping unimportant parts.
Why is it important?
Reading is a challenging task for Chinese as a second language (CSL) learners. Research has shown that effective use of strategies helps to enhance reading comprehension. However, studies about reading strategies of CSL learners are extremely limited and fewer studies look into how readers use comprehension strategies to enhance reading successfully. This study has addressed this gap.