Effects of an extensive e-book reading programme on middle school EFL students

Extensive reading (ER) in EFL is an approach to language learning that involves reading as much as possible for pleasure or information. ER improves reading speed and vocabulary acquisition and helps develop positive attitudes towards reading in general. The widespread use of digital devices such as mobile phones and tablets in and out of school has considerably widened the reading possibilities for EFL learners. ER through mobile devices is an emerging area of study and this chapter aims to contribute to the research by investigating its effects on vocabulary learning and student attitudes towards using mobile devices for their reading. The study records the results of an e-book ER programme at lower secondary school level in the Milan metropolitan area in Italy. The participants were 72 11-year-old students from two state schools. The students read 16 e-books at CEFR A1 and A2 levels over the course of eight months alongside the standard EFL school programme. Following a mixed method approach, the teachers, who were also researchers, asked students to complete a test on vocabulary items selected from the e-books both pre- and post-programme. Results from the analysis of vocabulary tests and questionnaires show positive effects of e-reading on incidental vocabulary learning and increased motivation towards EFL reading on mobile devices.