The Impacts and Educational Implications of Online Reading for English Language Learners

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to analyze the current issues of online reading and English as a Second Language (ESL) literacy education. The major research format is a critical literature review. The information will be mainly collected from previous research reports and empirical studies. First of all, the rationale of the study will be introduced. The background information of new literacies theory and English Language Learners (ELL) will be presented. Next, the theoretical basis of new literacies will be analyzed. The emphasis will be the definition and features of online reading. In addition, there will be analysis about ELL students' learning characteristics. This section will consist of statistical reports and empirical studies of ELLs. Based on the learning characteristics, the challenges for ESL teachers in integrating online reading elements in classroom teaching will be discussed. Furthermore, the educational implications will be critically evaluated and presented. The limitations and future research recommendations will also be illustrated.