Reading Comprehension and Reading Speed of University English Language Learners in Ecuador

Abstract

Reading represents a significant skill for knowledge acquisition. Nevertheless, many people cannot read properly, which may entail a serious limitation to their study, work, or other aspirations. The purpose of this research work is to determine the reading comprehension level and reading speed of English language students at the University of Cuenca, Ecuador, as well as the impact of sociodemographic factors and the use of reading strategies on these levels. The participants were 400 students who were taking English courses during September 2019 to February 2020 semester. The students completed a questionnaire on sociodemographic factors, took reading tests to determine their reading speed and comprehension, and then completed another questionnaire on reading strategies. The results show a high level of reading comprehension in English but a below-average reading speed, in part due to certain external factors. Given these results, research-based intervention is highly recommended to improve reading levels.

Privacy and Data Rights for Adult English as a Second Language (ESL) Students

“…In addition to the length of privacy and end-user agreements, the language complexity of these agreements also makes it more difficult for ESL students to read and comprehend the entirety of their digital rights. The results of a quantitative research study conducted by Mora et al (2021) show that reading speed and reading comprehension are influenced by a few factors, such as English level, profession, and gender. While a highly proficient ESL reader can read common, everyday reading materials, such as newspaper or magazine articles, at a rate of around 50 fewer words per minute (wpm) than the average American non-ESL reader, more complex reading materials that contain advanced, specialized vocabulary and more complex grammatic structures, require deeper language processing.…”