Abstract

This paper reports the implementation of an Extensive Reading (ER) program in an English proficiency course at a higher education institution in the Sultanate of Oman. The implemented ER program for this study is titled, “Less is More” utilizing a readily available website, Voice of America (VOA) Learning English. Data was gathered from undergraduate students of Omani nationality enrolled in an English proficiency course for Spring 2020/2021 semester during the Covid-19. The findings of the study were gathered from multiple sources namely reading speed, comparison of pretest and posttest scores, semi-structured interviews, online focus group discussion, and the course instructor’s reflection of the implementation of the ER program. The backgrounds of the students were considered too. The findings revealed that the average students’ reading speed was consistent at 100wpm (word-per-minute) throughout the ER program. There was a positive outcome on the students’ posttest scores and a significant correlation between the number of articles the students read to their posttest scores. The data from the qualitative inquiry provided an insight into the use of modified texts to encourage more reading. Although the research did not investigate the best practices for an ER in the context of an English proficiency classroom in Oman, it showed how an ER can be implemented online given the circumstances of the Covid-19 pandemic.

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