Reading culture among senior high school students in the K-12 curriculum : dimensions of strategies

Abstract

This study explored the reading practices of senior high school students in order to develop strategies for the development of a reading culture among senior high school students. It aimed to describe the lived experiences of students in reading. Thus, it employed the phenomenological approach of qualitative study. With the use of an interview-guide, a focus group discussion was conducted to seven participants and was triangulated with an in-depth interview that was conducted to five participants which were all from the senior high school level. There were four major themes that emerged as to the lived experiences of students in reading namely: decline in reading culture, dependence on internet over reading as a hobby and source of information, poor reading ability, reading blocks and hindrances. The participants of the study also unveiled that persistence and diligence, maximization of vocabulary aids, utilization of creative reading strategies, requesting assistance, visualization and setting the mood right help them in coping with the challenges of their reading experiences. Based on the results of the study, it came out that in order for a reading culture to develop, there must be a serious implementation of the reading program, conduct of highly engaging and stimulating reading activities, means to develop a passion for reading, and should start young and early. Results also imply that reading plays a crucial part in the development of the students. Keywords: education, reading culture, senior high school students, strategies, Philippines