Reading and the Internet: A comparison of reading on the Internet and reading print in French by French Immersion students

This study examines 29 Grade eight French Immersion students' responses to reading online and printed texts. This research draws on theories of reading as a social, meaning-making process, research on reading in French Immersion and a small but growing body of literature on internet reading. Reading on the Internet now constitutes a new form of reading that students engage in. Recent research has suggested that the visual, graphic and even aural elements of texts found on the Internet require the synthesis of various modes of interpretation of information and may constitute a new form of literacy. Various studies have shown that French Immersion secondary school students' reading interests often exceed their vocabulary and language skills and they are reluctant to read in their second language.;A qualitative case study model was used to conduct the research. Data collection methods included observation, response journals and interviews whereby the behavioural patterns of secondary French Immersion students reading on the Internet and reading conventional printed text were described as well as their affective reactions to each type of reading.;The findings indicated that students found reading on the Internet exciting and it led to a great deal of social interaction among the students. Most students agreed that the Internet allowed them to explore and follow their individual choices to a greater degree than printed texts. This study indicates that the Internet may enhance interactions and group collaboration in French Immersion classes, particularly in individual reading activities. Moreover, this research highlights the importance of personal choice in reading both printed texts and on-line.