An Investigation into the Reading Comprehension Problems Faced by the Pakistani Students at University Level

Abstract

Reading is one of the important and major skills of language learning. It has multifarious functions. However, it is very difficult and time-consuming process to become expert in reading comprehension. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to investigate the Reading Comprehension (RC) Problems faced by students at University level. This study was intended as an attempt to unfold problems in reading comprehension confronted to English language users in general and to the students of Kohat University of Science and Technology (KUST) Kohat and Federally Administered Tribal Areas, FATA University, District Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan in particular. The researchers conducted a study of 64 students and 9 teachers of the English departments of Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat, and FATA University, Kohat by using a questionnaire employing Likert-scale and semi-structure interviews. This research study yielded important results. Some of the problems highlighted by the study regarding reading comprehension are: Long Sentence sentences understanding, weak grammar, lack of vocabulary, frequently consulting dictionary, long sentences, and lack of English texts reading. It is also shown by the study that English teachers encourage students towards reading. Because they believe that reading is an important skill for language learning.

Keywords: Reading, Reading Comprehension, Reading Comprehension problems.