DOI: 10.5176/2251-3566_L312165
Authors: Min-Hsun Chiang
Abstract: The dynamic nature of the hypertext environment enables electronic reading to find common ground with the Net Generation readers. The hypertext environment offers a medley of sights, sounds and links that the conventional text cannot provide. Paradoxically, the ability to provide sound, animations, video clips and the like can also be distracting for learners (Harper et al., 2000). What is a benefit for some may be a disadvantage for others. Research in this area is much needed to shed light on the potential advantages and threats of electronic reading to reading engagement and reading motivation.Using a mixed method approach, this project was conducted with 34 college freshmen taking their required reading course. The quantitative data from the reading motivation questionnaire were collected to identify any difference between the e-book group and the print-based group. The findings from this study speak participants’ discontentment with this relatively new reading gadget. Technology alone can not convert a sluggish digital native reader into an avid one. In this case, medium doesn’t matter as much as the sacred reading rituals deeply rooted in every experienced reader.
Keywords: electronic reading, reading motivation, electronic reading device, EFL reading instruction
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