Uncovering Language Learning Factors in Reading Difficulties: A Case Study of Thai Students in Indonesia

Abstract

Khaobaht, L.2024. Uncovering Language Learning Factors in Reading

Difficulties: A case study of Thai students in Indonesia. Skripsi, English Education Department Faculty of Teacher Training and Education University of Islam Malang. Advisor I: Dr. Hamiddin, S.Pd, M.Pd; Advisor II: DzurriyyatunNi’mah, S.Pd., M.Pd.

 

Keywords: Factors in language learning, Reading difficulties, Thai Students.

 

Reading is an essential skill for acquiring knowledge and lifelong learning, particularly for students studying English as a Foreign Language (EFL). This study explores the reading difficulties faced by Thai students studying English at the University of Islam Malang, Indonesia. The research employs a qualitative methods approach, this research has studied the factors in language learning that cause reading difficulties, whether it factors in reading behavior, attitude factors, teaching factors, and Environmental factors. Data were collected using questionnaires adapted from the Survey of Reading Strategy (SORS) and unstructured interviews conducted in Thai, later translated into English. The study focuses on two main participants, delving into their experiences, reading difficulties, and strategies for overcoming reading difficulties.

 

The findings reveal that the study identified four key factors affecting Thai students' reading difficulties in English at the University of Islam Malang. The highest factor was reading behavior (76.19%), influenced by students' skills in reading and their tendency to translate English into their native language, often relying on dictionaries. Teaching and learning factors accounted for 70% of the difficulty, highlighting the impact of cultural differences and teaching methods. Attitude factors were significant at 56.67%, with students facing issues like lack of confidence and anxiety in reading. Lastly, environmental (family) factors were relatively low at 37.33%, indicating insufficient family support for English reading.

However, when the researcher became aware of factors in language learning that affect the reading difficulty of Thai students in Indonesia. Therefore, we analyzed in-depth information from the interviews about Thai students facing hurdles such as Difficulty reading English, unfamiliarity with vocabulary lack of confidence, anxiety, reliance on dictionaries and translation, and insufficient family support for English book reading. Cultural barriers and teaching techniques greatly impact students' struggles with English reading, necessitating adaptations and improvements in teaching arrangements.

            Therefore, students' abilities will advance when they regularly apply the reading strategies outlined, such as patience, consistent practice, utilizing resources effectively (including Google Translate initially, but emphasizing repeated reading for comprehension), listening to English media with subtitles for pronunciation and understanding, engaging with social media and real-life experiences, and seeking support from friends and teachers for motivation and recommended reading materials. to develop their reading skills to be a good reader in the future.