The effect of EFL reading instruction by using a WebQuest learning module as a CAI enhancement on college students' reading performance in Taiwan

The purpose of this study was to measure reading vocabulary acquisition and reading performance of EFL students when a WebQuest learning module as a computer-assisted instruction (CAI) was utilized to enhance the traditional EFL reading instruction. The study aimed to determine the effects of utilizing the WebQuest as a CAI on the traditional EFL reading instruction in a target university in Taiwan. In addition, this study reported the relationship between student attitudes and student perceptions toward the use of the WebQuest module.; A quasi-experimental research designed was employed for this study. A pretest and posttest reading comprehension assessment were administered for the both groups. The treatment group received a researcher developed WebQuest learning module embedded in a traditional EFL instruction, while the control group received traditional text-only EFL instruction. After the posttest, the treatment group received an attitudinal survey about learning attitudes and perceptions toward the WebQuest learning module.; The data was analyzed by a series of analysis of variance (ANOVA), which were used to determine significant difference between the groups. The results indicate that the students in the treatment group outperformed the students in the control group. The use of the WebQuest as a CAI enhancement produced a significant difference in students' vocabulary acquisition and story reading performance, but not in student's thematic reading performance. The results of survey indicated an overall positive attitude toward the WebQuest learning. A significant correlation was reported between student attitudes and student perceptions.