Recreational Reading as a Leisure Activity: Perspectives from Georgian and Finnish Hearing and deaf students

Using a mixed methods approach, this study investigates Finnish and Georgian deaf students' attitudes towards leisure reading and the relationship between their reading intentions and actual reading. The primary interest of the study is to identify the external factors that affect reading behaviour directly or indirectly. 

An Integrative Model of Planned Behaviour is used as a theoretical framework, where intention is considered the main determinant for the behaviour. 

The study is cross-cultural, bringing the experiences of two distinct countries together. 

Reading attitude is investigated quantitatively, using a 5-point Likert Scale survey. 29 statements are broken down into three variables: enjoyment ( statements 4-13), difficulty ( statements 14-22) and social reinforcement (statements 23-29). 

Follow-up focus group interviews investigated the perceived external factors that affect reading behaviour negatively. interview questions were also grouped under three categories: 1) General feelings about reading (experiential attitude or affect), 2) Influences from individuals, close networks or society (perceived norms)  and situational or environmental restrictions affect behaviour performance (skills, knowledge, resources, other factors).  

The interview protocol, questions survey and row data are attached as files.

Interview transcripts are saved in Finnish and Georgian languages and can be shared only upon a reasonable request.