EFL PRE-SERVICE TEACHERS' ATTITUDES TOWARD READING FOR PLEASURE: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Abstract

Abstract : The research study focuses on exploring the attitudes of pre-service teachers towards reading for pleasure. The objectives of the study are to determine the thoughts and beliefs, emotions, and behaviors of pre-service teachers towards reading for pleasure, as well as to understand why reading for pleasure is desirable for them. The study adopts a qualitative research design and is conducted at the Islamic University of Malang, with five pre-service teachers as participants. The data collection involves semi-structured interviews, and the data is analyzed using content analysis. The findings of the study reveal that pre-service teachers have positive attitudes towards reading for pleasure. They view it as a fun, enjoyable, and relaxing activity that brings them happiness and various benefits. The participants believe that reading for pleasure fosters a liking for books and readings, and they value the freedom to choose their own reading materials. Their behaviors align with their positive attitudes, as they actively engage in reading for pleasure to relax, enjoy themselves, and improve their emotional well-being. The implications of the study suggest that promoting leisure reading among pre-service teachers can improve their attitudes towards reading and general well-being. It is recommended to offer a variety of reading materials and allow them to choose what they want to read. This can foster a positive outlook on literature and reading in general. However, further research is needed to explore these attitudes in different contexts and examine the long-term impact of reading for pleasure on professional development.

Keywords : reading for pleasure, attitudes, pre-service teacher