The role of extensive reading in developing Iraqi EFL skills in modern Iraq : a qualitative case study

Abstract EN

Reading is an important skill that Iraqi college students need to master if they want to succeed in their academic programs or in their life in general.

This qualitative study is concerned with investigating the perspectives of Iraqi university students towards extensive reading and its role in developing their linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

Nine college students from the English department in the College of Education/Ibn Rushd at the University of Baghdad participated in this study.

Results showed that Iraqi college students appreciate extensive reading and hope for the inclusion of extensive reading activities within their curriculum.

However, there are challenges like social life influence and lack of services that affect their willingness to read extensively.