Using Digital Interactive Notebook to Enhance Secondary Pupils’ Reading Comprehension Skills

Abstract and Key Takeaways

Despite ongoing English language education reforms in Malaysia, secondary pupils still demonstrate weaknesses in reading comprehension. This study investigates the use of Digital Interactive Notebooks (DIN) as a solution. A preliminary study showed poor assessment marks in reading comprehension. Key takeaways indicate that DIN enhances reading comprehension, evidenced by marked improvements in post-test scores among 60 Malaysian ESL pupils. Interactive elements like videos and visuals positively influenced motivation and engagement, supporting the integration of technology in language education. Teachers are encouraged to explore innovative uses of DIN for engaging reading activities.

Methodology

The study collected data from pre-tests, post-tests, and questionnaires distributed to 60 secondary pupils across two urban and suburban schools. The intervention involved using Digital Interactive Notebooks to improve reading comprehension skills. The pre-test/post-test design allowed for comparison of performance before and after the DIN intervention, demonstrating its impact.

Impact on Reading Comprehension

The research findings suggest that pupils using Digital Interactive Notebooks achieved higher marks in reading comprehension tests following the intervention, compared to their pre-test scores. This indicates that DIN effectively enhanced their reading comprehension skills. Pupils exhibited increased motivation and engagement, with a stated preference for interactive tasks and attractive visuals inherent in the DIN format. This highlights the positive influence of rich media and interactive features on learning.

Features and Demographics

Digital Interactive Notebooks incorporate features such as hyperlinks, videos, graphic organizers, and colorful visuals, which collectively promote active learning and self-reflection, leading to improved comprehension. The study involved a total of sixty Malaysian secondary pupils, consisting of 25 males and 35 females. These participants were selected through convenience sampling from schools located in both urban and suburban areas, providing a diverse demographic for the study.