What factors make reading comprehension difficult for English learners in Saudi primary schools from the teachers’ perspective?

Abstract

This research investigated the challenges limiting reading comprehension abilities among young learners in Saudi Arabia's primary schools where English is taught to them as a second language. The study adopted a mixed-method methodology, employing both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gain a complete understanding of the factors influencing reading comprehension difficulties and potential strategies for improvement. The study recruited 23 participants, where 20 participated in the study survey while the remaining three were part of the qualitative interviews. The research was guided by two main research questions, them being: (1) What factors make reading comprehension difficult for English learners in Saudi elementary schools from the teachers' perspective? and (2) What strategies might help teachers improve reading comprehension ability for English language learners in Saudi primary schools? The outcomes from this study showed that a number of factors that contributed to the reading comprehension challenges faced by the young learners in Saudi Arabia primary schools, including linguistic elements, including grammar, vocabulary, phonetics, and language variations. Difficulties with grammar, limited vocabulary, and phonemic challenges hindered a proper pronunciation and spelling, ultimately affecting learners' capacity to understand English language texts. Moreover, the differences between the native Arabic language and English create a cultural void that limited an effective comprehension. There were also inadequacies in the syllabus and curriculum, particularly with lack of clear objectives in the curriculum and a steep learning slope presenting challenges for learners' reading comprehension abilities. The study recommended addressing the challenges with the curriculum and also employing active teaching and learning techniques to develop effective English reading comprehension skills among the young learners in the Saudi Arabia primary schools.