Reading, leisure and academic performance in university students of the socioeducational area

Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, the interest of research has been strengthened around the variables that determine academic success within the university context. Different studies have analyzed the role of reading in achievement, but, nevertheless, the possible joint contribution with respect to leisure in the academic success of university students has not been considered. Methodology: The aim of this research is to analyze how voluntary reading is inserted in the leisure time of university students and to study the influence of the relationship of leisure and reading with academic success in university. The Reading Habits Questionnaire, the Leisure Activity Scale and one academic achievement measure have been used. The questionnaire was completed by 1,614 university students. Results: The results confirmed the relationship between academic achievement and cultural and technological leisure, and with reading practices, particularly of a professional nature. Discussion: It would be necessary to continue to examine this line of research in order to design proposals for intervention at the university focused on improving reading skills and leisure time management.