The influence of extensive reading on EFL students’ motivation and vocabulary learning: A case study at a private University in Ecuador

Abstract

This research is focused on the influence of extensive reading (ER) on Ecuadorian learners’ motivation and vocabulary learning at a higher education level in English as Foreign Language (EFL). The purpose of this research is determining whether or not extensive reading has a positive effect on students’ motivation and vocabulary learning. This study was carried out in a private university in Loja during a period of 6 months. The participants included 16 students who were divided into 2 groups: experimental group and control group. The study was developed using quantitative and qualitative methods. The experimental group participants were engaged in an extensive reading program (ER). Data was collected by using a reading motivation survey, before and after the ER interventions; also, a Vocabulary Size Test was applied as a pretest and posttest; finally, a semi-structured interview was used during the ER program. The findings showed positive attitudes towards extensive reading and particularly significant gains in vocabulary acquisition.