Reading Habits of College Students in the United States

Abstract

This study employed a convergent mixed-method research design to investigate reading habits of American college students. A total of 1,265 (466 male and 799 female) college students voluntarily participated in the study by completing a self-reported survey. Twelve students participated in semi-structured interviews and classroom observations. Descriptive analysis indicated that the hours students spent weekly (M) on academic reading (AR), extracurricular reading (ER), and the Internet (INT), were 7.72 hours, 4.24 hours, and 8.95 hours, respectively. A multiple linear regression and a zero-order correlation statistical analysis indicated the INT and socializing with others (SO) were significant factors college students devoted to conventional academic and extracurricular reading.

Appendix

Interview Questions

1. Do you like to read? What do you like to read?

2. Do you spend time reading for enjoyment? If you do, how much time do you spend reading per week? How often do you like to read?

3. What are your favorite books? Why do you like them? How do you know these books?

4. How do you search for new books to read? How do you use the Internet for personal and academic purposes?

5. How often do you use the Internet? How much time do you spend on the Internet?

6. What do you normally do when you are online?

7. How does the Internet impact your learning experience and reading activities when you are in the college classroom?

8. What was the last book you read for pleasure?