Date of Award
2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Education (MEd)
Department
Education
First Advisor
Ana Margarita Rivero Arias
Abstract
This study is to investigate what impact sustained silent reading in class will have on student enjoyment in reading. The study was conducted over a two-week period in which students were given 10-15 minutes for sustained silent reading of a hard-copy book of their choice at the end of each class meeting. They were then asked in a survey how they felt after reading, and to give a reason why they answered in that way. Students were also surveyed at the beginning and end of the study with a series of questions about their reading habits and enjoyment level. The data shows that students overwhelmingly enjoyed the exercise. Though students did not report they would be more likely to read for pleasure outside of class, their feedback suggests a strong desire to choose what they read and to understand what they read. These results suggest more inquiry into in-class reading and the possibilities of more choice for students in the curriculum.
Recommended Citation
Cronin, William, "The Joy of Reading: An Action Research Project" (2026). Master of Education in Transformational Teaching and Learning. 4.
https://scholarworks.seattleu.edu/etds-mttl/4