Effects of L2 Adult Learners' Extensive Reading on Their Experience and Attitudes from the Perspective of Lifelong Learning

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the reading experiences of L2 adult learners who participated in an English book club for six months and how these experiences affected their reading attitudes. Four adult L2 learners who were not enrolled in an educational institution voluntarily participated in the study. The participants' open-ended questionnaires and in-depth interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Most of the participants expressed disappointment with their previous formal English education, which led them to seek alternative approaches to improve their language skills. Personal circumstances also influenced their reading experiences, such as job demands and relocation to English-speaking countries. Overall, the participants reported a high level of satisfaction with the book club, noting increased enjoyment and consistency in reading. Their attitudes toward reading evolved as they improved their language and intellectual skills and engaged with other members. Ultimately, book club activities seem to become a lifelong routine that fosters intellectual pursuits and self-fulfillment.