Nuchsara Choksuansup Thongsan
Mahasarakham University
About
Dr.Thongsan is a lecturer at the Department of Western Languages and Linguistics, Mahasarakham University. She is a current director of Mahasarakham University American Corner where extensive reading is actively promoted. Also, she serves as a secretary for Thailand Extensive Reading Association (TERA).Sessions
College and University Exploring Engagement and Motivation in Extensive Reading more
Sun, Sep 7, 09:55-10:40 Asia/Tokyo
Extensive reading (ER) provides learners with opportunities to read for enjoyment and develop reading skills without formal assessments This study investigates factors influencing both motivation or the reasons students choose to read and engagement or how actively they participate in a weekly graded reading program involving 52 university students in a critical reading class. Using surveys and semi-structured interviews, the study explores students' experiences, challenges, and perceived benefits of ER. Findings reveal key motivators that sustain participation, as well as obstacles that may hinder engagement. The session offers insights into how ER activities can foster student engagement and potentially increase the amount of reading they do. Attendees will gain practical recommendations for implementing ER in similar educational contexts and strategies to encourage students to read more through meaningful engagement.
College and University Extensive Reading as The Alleviation for Depression more
Sun, Sep 7, 17:20-18:05 Asia/Tokyo
Emotional well-being is an important factor in students’ academic performance and overall development. Extensive reading (ER), when designed as a low-pressure and enjoyable activity, can help address stress and support emotional health. This study explored how ER activities outside the classroom provided a relaxing reading experience for university students. The program allowed students to select texts freely without formal assessments. Semi-structured interviews and observations were conducted to understand how ER affected their stress levels and motivation. Findings suggest that ER helps students feel more relaxed, emotionally supported, and motivated to read more. This session will share activities used in the program and offer ideas for using ER to support students’ mental health and engagement beyond the classroom.
All Levels From Foreign to Familiar: Making Graded Readers for Thai Learners more
Sun, Sep 7, 11:45-12:30 Asia/Tokyo
Graded readers are essential for language acquisition, but their effectiveness depends on quality stories, linguistic accessibility, and cultural relevance. While many graded readers exist, few are tailored to specific local cultures. Many stories are based on Western norms, which may not resonate in non-Western countries. This presentation focuses on developing graded readers for Thai learners of English, considering their cultural perspectives, reading preferences, and linguistic challenges. Drawing from a project funded by The Fundamental Fund, Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI), the session explores narrative styles, familiar themes, cultural frameworks, interests, and vocabulary needs that align with Thai sensibilities. It also discusses how the materials from this project align with the Thai National Curriculum to enhance motivation and comprehension. The session provides practical insights for educators, publishers, and curriculum designers looking to create engaging and culturally sensitive reading materials.
