Elementary and Middle-Grade Students' Internet Reading Strategies During Online Inquiry in Self-Selected Topics

• In Event: Critical Thinking and Technology-Supported Learning

Abstract

This study sought to understand the internet reading strategies used by students across a range of reading abilities in grades 4-8 as they defined their own inquiry and conducted unguided research. In particular, the study sought to understand what strategies students used and how they used them. Findings revealed that students engaged in six main types of strategies that included planning and monitoring, questioning, navigating, evaluating, meaning making, and communicating. Findings also revealed that the unique internet context allowed students to employ strategies flexibly and responsively to meet their unique needs, even when they had lower prior knowledge. Findings are discussed in relation to constructively responsive reading and online research and comprehension.

Authors

• Elena Forzani, Boston University

• Julie Corrigan, Concordia University - Montreal