Inference activation processes in EFL reading comprehension : a theoretical account

Abstract EN

During reading, readers go through different types of inferential processes.

These inferential processes are divided into automatic, strategic, and a combination of automatic and strategic processes.

The current research aims at shedding on inference activation processes.

It has theoretically tackled the topic in the first place in terms of what is meant by inferential processes, the types of inferential processes, and factors affecting Inference activation processes.

The research concludes that, automatic processes are used to activate inferences unconsciously, whereas strategic processes refer to the conscious trait of the readers to activate inferences.

In addition, during reading, readers may use automatic and strategic processes interchangeably according to the implied information.