EFL Learners’ Conceptions of Academic English Reading
Silpakorn University, Thailand
ABSTRACT
Reading tends to be one of the essential skills for successful academic study in higher education. However, reading seems to be the most difficult skill for EFL learners, especially when it comes to the area of academic reading. In order to be able to train EFL learners the language and study skills for successful academic reading and develop academic reading instruction, it is crucial to understand their conceptions of academic English reading. This study then aimed to investigate: 1) how EFL learners conceived academic English reading; 2) what they encountered while reading academic texts and 3) what skills they needed as well as how teachers could help them with academic reading. The participants were 100 Thai undergraduates studying English for Academic Purposes (EAP). They were asked to complete a questionnaire in order to elicit their conceptions of academic reading, academic reading difficulties and help from teachers. The results were presented and discussed so as to provide fruitful implications for EAP reading instruction.
KEYWORDS
Learners’ Conceptions, Academic English Reading, English for Academic Purposes (EAP)