An Investigation Into L2 Reading Motivation Among EFL University Student in Taiwan

Wan-Chi Yang

(Tamkang University, Taiwan)

Abstract: This research investigated the relationship between second language (L2) reading motivation and the amount of extensive reading done by English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students. It was conducted using a quantitative research design. A total of 245 university students in Taiwan were administered reading motivation questionnaires which were based on first language (L1) reading motivation theories proposed by Wigfield and Guthrie (1995, 1997). The amount of reading was calculated through the MReader System. The results of statistical analysis indicated that two reading motivation factors, Academic Compliance and Fondness for English Readings were significant predictors of the number of words read and time spent reading. Different dimensions of reading motivation, including intrinsically and extrinsically-oriented factors, were also identified in the study.

Key words: L2 reading motivation, second language reading, extensive reading