Satomi Shibata
Kinko Gakuin University, Nagoya, Japan
About
ER since 2010 Presented in Kyoto, Korea, Dubai, Taiwan, and Bali!Sessions
College and University Do Japanese EFL language learners prefer graded or non-graded readers? more
Wed, Aug 9, 10:30-11:05 Asia/Makassar
The present study explores Japanese EFL language learners’ preferences for extensive reading books—graded readers or non-graded readers— in the period of more than two years. Many researchers insist that graded readers (GR) play an important role when institutions implement an extensive reading program. However, in the Japanese context, some language learners have negative impressions toward GR for various reasons. GR sometimes prevent them from reading extensively. For instance, high schools in Japan use too advanced GR as a reading assignment during long vacations and students tend to have an unsuccessful reading experience due to finding numerous unknown words. As a result, they often end up having negative images toward GR. This qualitative research explores how GR and non-GR books influence Japanese EFL language learners reading motivation based on interviews to those who have practiced extensive reading more than two years. The results suggested both GR and non-GR are necessary even in the beginning of their learning stage.
Adult learners Lifelong learning communities through ER at a local library and online more
Wed, Aug 9, 11:15-11:50 Asia/Makassar
This study explores the two language learning communities of adult language learners engaging in extensive reading in Japan: at a local library and through an online language learners' community. This qualitative study examines how a local library and an online learners’ community can support adult learners to practice extensive reading in English continuously. The data collected includes semi-structured interviews with three participants from each group who practiced extensive reading for a year, observation notes, and their reading logs. The major findings of the study suggested extensive reading helped the learners connect to each other through sharing what, how much, and how they read even though there was a gap in English proficiency among the participants in both communities. In addition, extensive reading seemed to have helped them to continue learn English using other language learning methods as well. The study suggested extensive reading could play important roles to help lifelong learning in Japan.