The Myth of L1-L2 Metacognitive Reading Strategy Transfer: Actual and Perceived Strategy Use in Focus
Subject Areas : Journal of Applied Linguistics Studies
Somayeh Nilforoushan
1
(
Department of English Language, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
)
Mojgan Rashtchi
2
(
Department of English Translation, North-Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
)
Gholam-Reza Abbasian
3
(
Department of English Language, Imam Ali University, Tehran, Iran
)
Keywords: Actual Use, Metacognitive Reading Strategies (MRS), Perceived Use, Reading Comprehension ,
Abstract :
This study employed a mixed methods approach to investigate Iranian EFL learners’ perceived and actual use of metacognitive reading strategies (MRS) while reading English and Persian. The study examined the actual and perceived MRs across three categories: global (GLOB), problem-solving (PROB), and support (SUP). In the quantitative phase, 133 intermediate EFL learners studying TEFL at Islamic Azad University and Farhangyan University were selected as participants. In the qualitative phase, 40 students from high and poor reading ability levels (20 from each group) were selected as the focus group participants. The instruments employed in this study included the Persian Reading Comprehension Placement Test, the Oxford Placement Test, the Reading Section of the PET, Perceived Reading Strategy Questionnaires in English and Persian, semi-structured interviews, and think-aloud protocols. The data analysis involved using chi-square, MANOVA, and theme-based analysis. The findings indicated a statistically significant difference between the frequency and type of perceived PROB but no statistically significant disparity between the frequency or type of SUP and GLOB. The qualitative data revealed a discrepancy between the participants’ actual usage in practice and their subjective perception particularly in relation to the GLOB and SUP. Finally, the theoretical and pedagogical implications of this study were highlighted.