Examining the Effects of a School-wide Reading Culture on the Engagement of Middle School Students

Abstract

This case study examined a middle school where a new administration had made school-wide reading an immediate and significant priority. The study investigated how and why the culture shift to school-wide reading appeared to influence student engagement. Existing research suggested that students must feel motivated about their learning to be successful academically. Anecdotal reports from teachers suggested that student engagement had increased because of a school-wide focus on reading. In-depth interviews were conducted with a random sample of students and teachers and were categorized according to emerging themes. Three factors emerged: making reading a top priority, modeling by and support from adults in the school, and the creation of motivating learning environments. One notable finding was that the majority of the students and teachers felt that time devoted to silent reading through a structured, systematic approach and the emphasis on school-wide reading contributed significantly toward creating a family of readers within the school.