International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) |Volume VI, Issue IX, September 2022|ISSN 2454-6186
Kasun Vindika Galappaththy, Purnima Karunarathne*
Department of English Language Teaching, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
*Corresponding Author
Abstract: In the process of language learning, Reading is considered a fundamental skill as it is the only means of access to written documents in a language (Alderson, 2000). With sound proficiency in reading, learners, especially at tertiary level, can achieve their academic and professional goals. This study was carried out in order to investigate the effectiveness of Collaborative Strategic Reading Instruction Approach (CSR) which is a learner centered reading approach closely related to cooperative learning theory (Klingner and Vaughn ,1996; 1998; 2000). The informants of the study were 67 lower intermediate level undergraduates from the University of Peradeniya. Data was collected through the mixed method approach. The qualitative data of the experiment demonstrated that collaborative work during the reading activities lead the learners to learn and think significantly more and better. However, the statistical analysis did not prove this method as a better method than the traditional teaching method. Thus, pedagogical implications for English instruction at university level in Sri Lanka and suggestions for future research based on the findings to further validate the impact and effectiveness of collaborative learning are proposed.
Keywords: Preferred Learning Style, Collaborative Learning, Collaborative Strategic Reading
I. INTRODUCTION
Collaborative learning or small group discussions is an effective means of language learning in which learners work together to achieve a common goal; thus, each member tries to contribute and hold responsibility in achieving that goal (Colbeck et al., 2000). This approach enables learners to work in small groups in order to accomplish their goals. The success of the approach broadly depends on the commitment of the learners to collaborate with the team mates (Smith & MacGregor, 1992). Collaborative Strategic Reading (CSR) is a learner-centered comprehension strategic instructional approach which aims to develop reading comprehension of learners through the amalgamation of strategic reading and cooperative learning (Klingner & Vaughn, 1996; Klingner & Vaughn1998; Klingner & Vaughn, 2000). This approach helps fostering learner autonomy and positive interdependence which are identified as prime aims of the approach (Little, 1991).
This study was carried out to study several important aspects of the CSR approach in the Sri Lankan context. The study