Exploring reading habits and attitudes among high school students in Thailand

This research study focuses on examining the reading habits and attitudes of grade 11 high school students in a public school in the northeastern region of Thailand. The aim of the study is to investigate the students’ reading behaviors and attitudes, particularly comparing two different academic programs: an IEP within the English major and a regular class in the science-math track. The study employed a quantitative research method, using a questionnaire adapted from previous studies to collect data on reading habits and attitudes. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive frequency analysis, a Pearson correlation, and grouping similar responses from the open-ended questions. The findings revealed that the participants showed a preference for electronic materials over physical books, favored reading in Thai rather than English, and expressed a preference for non-fiction and leisure reading. In terms of attitudes, the participants displayed a moderate level of attitudes towards reading in general and in English. However, no significant relationship was found between academic programs and reading habits or attitudes. The study provides valuable insights for educators and stakeholders involved in promoting reading engagement among high school students, aiding in the development of targeted interventions and strategies.