On-screen L1 and L2 reading among 60+ adults

Abstract

The following multiple-case pilot study examined the single-text comprehension strategies employed by 60+ adults ( m  = 65.5) when reading a text followed by comprehension tasks on screen in both L1 and L2. Sixteen experienced readers completed a questionnaire assessing their reading preferences in L1 and L2 on-screen and in print. Based on these results, four participants with diverse preferences were selected to read texts on-screen in L1 and L2 and complete comprehension tasks requiring skimming and scanning. Participants’ awareness of reading strategies was evaluated using two questionnaires administered in L1 and L2. The SMI Red 250 eye-tracker recorded their reading behaviour, and the accuracy of their responses was subsequently analysed to assess the effectiveness of the strategies they employed. The cross-case analysis demonstrated that participants’ awareness of existing strategies did not align with their automated use, suggesting that L2 reading instruction for adults 60+ could benefit from explicit teaching of skimming strategies and the supportive ones, such as rereading and double-checking while scanning.