Reading Strategies in EFL Students from a Private Ecuadorian University

Abstract

This study describes the perspectives of 50 students in a private University in Ecuador on the importance of reading in English. The purpose of this study was to determine how much students read, their application of reading strategies, and their point of view towards learning vocabulary and developing their skills in reading in English. This descriptive study was supported by a quantitative and qualitative instrument. Data obtained from questionnaires applied through google forms was used to answer the research questions. Results demonstrated that 72% read in English. Furthermore, it was evidenced that there was a lack of application of strategies while reading. Also, the participants considered that the acquisition and learning of vocabulary is complex due to the lack of dedication, the large amount of new vocabulary, similar spelling and pronunciation of some words, among others. Finally, 42% of the participants mentioned that they feel anxious when reading in English because of the difficulties of the passages. Implications of this study involve recommendations to EFL teachers who seek to improve their student’s perspectives towards learning vocabulary and acquiring reading skills through the application of strategies.