Influence of Teaching Methods Used on the Acquisition of English Reading Skills in Secondary Schools in Kenya

Abstract

English reading skills are essential in academic and professional development. While appropriate teaching methods enhance learner acquisition of reading skills, inappropriate teaching methods hamper the acquisition of reading skills. This article examines the type of teaching methods used when teaching reading skills and seeks to establish the influence of teaching methods used on the acquisition of English reading skills. Data were obtained from 400 form three students and 40 teachers of English language from 20 public secondary schools in Teso North sub-county. Stratified, simple random and proportional sampling was used to obtain the study sample. Data were collected using questionnaires, interview schedules and classroom observation schedules. The sampled students filled out questionnaires and teachers were interviewed and observed in the classroom. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The results indicate that teaching methods such as group work, pair work and discussion were the most significant factors influencing the acquisition of reading skills p < 0.05. The study concluded that pedagogy has a significant relationship with the acquisition of English reading skills. The study recommended that teachers should use a variety of teaching methods. This is because each method complements the other.