Impact of extensive reading programs on vocabulary development and reading comprehension

Abstract

This study investigates the impacts of an Extensive Reading (ER) program on students’ vocabulary size and reading comprehension, addressing a critical gap in supporting learners with low English proficiency. The research focuses on students enrolled in the Written English 1 course at Petra Christian University, many of whom have repeatedly failed the course due to limited vocabulary and difficulties in reading comprehension. Participants include first-year students required to read at least 20 graded readers over one semester, progressing from level-1 to level-2 materials as part of their coursework. Data collection involves pre-and post-tests to measure vocabulary size and reading comprehension, student reading logs to track progress, and semi-structured interviews to capture student experiences and perceptions of the ER program. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of test results and qualitative insights from interviews to understand the program’s effectiveness comprehensively. Findings are expected to offer practical implications for enhancing reading and language proficiency in similar educational contexts.