The critical reader to enhance english reading skill

Abstract

The project explores how a group of university students use the website “The Critical Reader” as an educational resource in their English language development. This study explored the effects of using this resource in independent learning, with students consistently practicing the activities provided by the website to strengthen their reading skills. This benefits their academic and personal performance, this means, in everyday situations, that require decision-making and critical thinking. A qualitative method was used to develop this project, allowing for the collection of opinions that contribute to this research through interviews with five students of the PINE degree. They shared their knowledge and point of view on the influence of using “The Critical Reader,” on their English language learning, as well as the benefits and challenges they encountered during their independent reading comprehension process. The results showed that the students improved their reading comprehension, critical thinking, and confidence using “The Critical Reader.” However, their limited vocabulary and the use of advanced terms in long texts posed a challenge for them. Despite this, through the application of appropriate strategies and techniques, they managed to overcome these difficulties and achieve better comprehension of the texts. In conclusion, this research demonstrates that “The Critical Reader” is an educational resource that has positive effects on students and supports their learning process to improve their overall reading skills. It also empowers students to become independent critical readers, encouraging them to take greater responsibility for their own learning and committing to constant practice.