Reading Comprehension Using Skimming and Scanning Strategies through Collaboration Facilitated by WhatsApp

Abstract

This research study implemented skimming and scanning strategies through collaboration facilitated by WhatsApp to enhance reading comprehension. The research was applied at a public high school in Guayaquil. The sample was 40 students of third Baccalaureate education at an A2 English level. This action research was supported by qualitative and quantitative instruments: pre and post-test, pre and post-surveys, rubrics, and learning logs. Results demonstrated the impact of this innovation was Cohen d= 3.93 which indicates a high impact for learning. Quantitative data showed that after the application of the innovation, 80% of the students improved their reading comprehension. Through the qualitative analysis of the learning logs about students’ perspectives, they confirmed that the innovation was effective for comprehension of texts. Based on the results, it could be concluded that skimming and .scanning strategies through collaboration facilitated by technological tools were appropriate to improve students’ reading comprehension in an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) class in the Ecuadorian context. Implications of this study involve other English teachers who would like to improve reading in their classes and researchers with similar topics of investigation.