The Impact of E-Readers on Adolescent Students' Reading Motivation: A Case Study

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative case study was (a) to describe adolescents' use of the e-readers, (b) to discover if e-readers increase adolescents' intrinsic motivation to read and, if so, why, and (c) to examine the possibility of creating a learner-centered environment for students using e-readers. Five seventh and eighth grade students from an urban school district participated in this qualitative case study. The students involved were a cross-section of readers: an avid reader, a student with dyslexia, two English as Second Language (ESL) students, and a reluctant reader. An embedded single case design was utilized so that an in depth analysis could be made for each student and the students as a group. The following data collection methods were used: (a) interviews, (b) observations, and (c) documents. Finally, the constant comparative method was used for data analysis. The following findings were demonstrated from this study: (a) the e-reader increased motivation to read, (b) the e-reader created a learner centered environment, (c) the need for support in using digital text in school, and (d) choice and interest in reading materials is important to increasing motivation to read. Furthermore, the major implications were the use of other multimodal devices with students to support their in school and out of school literacy experiences. Next, the e-reader tools allowed the students to stay actively engaged during the reading process. In addition, this study strengthens and confirms that choice in reading materials is vital to motivation. Finally, a recommendation for future research is to determine if the use of an e-reader increases vocabulary acquisition with students. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone [phone]. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]