Investigating Thai primary school EFL learners’ motivation for extensive reading

Reading is an important skill that has value both in and outside of education. It offers numerous benefits, such as expanding knowledge and creating more opportunities in life. However, despite recognizing the importance of extensive reading for language learning, there is a lack of research in this area, especially in Thai primary schools. Additionally, many Thai people have been reported to dislike reading. This research aims to investigate the motivation factors behind extensive reading among Thai primary school students learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL). The study used a quantitative research design and involved 35 EFL learners, aged 10-13 years, from Wattankong School in Phetchaburi province, Thailand. Two instruments were used to collect data: the Reading Motivation Questionnaire for Elementary (RMQ-E) and semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed that intrinsic motivations, such as curiosity, involvement, and achievement, were more significant than external motivations like competition and recognition.