Using pictograms as a resource for enhancing EFL reading skills in private and public school students.

Abstract

Abstract: This research aimed to investigate the use of pictograms as a learning resource to improve reading skills in public and private school students. To achieve the objectives of the study, the research was carried out at a private high school in Loja, Ecuador. For this study, a quasi experimental design with a mixed-methods approach were managed which helped to collect and analyze the relevant findings. Moreover, seventy-four students between 13 and 14 years actively participated. They were divided into two groups: an experimental group taught with pictograms, and a control group. Both groups received diagnostic tests before and after the intervention. Additionally, surveys on perceptions of the use of pictograms and interviews with the experimental group were conducted. The relevant results showed that the group exposed to pictograms significantly improved their reading skills. Furthermore, the use of pictograms increased students' motivation and confidence in reading tasks. Therefore, pictograms proved to be an effective teaching strategy for strengthening reading comprehension in English teaching contexts.