THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SELF-SELECTED READING TO IMPROVE STUDENTS’ READING COMPREHENSION IN EXTENSIVE READING COURSE

This study investigates the impact of Self-Selected Reading (SSR) on
enhancing students’ reading comprehension within the Extensive Reading
Course at La Tansa Mashiro University. Utilizing a Classroom Action
Research (CAR) design, the research involved 20 undergraduate participants
who engaged in interest-driven reading over two instructional cycles. Data
were gathered through comprehension tests, classroom observations, and
student reading logs, then analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative
methods. Findings from the first cycle revealed that 62.5% of students
demonstrated active engagement, yet only 35% achieved the benchmark score
of 70 or higher. In contrast, the second cycle showed significant improvement,
with 86.7% of students actively participating and 95% attaining the targeted
comprehension score. These outcomes highlight a marked advancement in
reading performance following the integration of SSR. The study concludes
that embedding SSR into the Extensive Reading curriculum significantly
enhances not only students’ reading proficiency but also cultivates a more
positive disposition toward reading. It recommends that educators incorporate
SSR to promote reading engagement and support the development of
autonomous, motivated readers.
___________________________