The effect of digital and interactive English storybooks on fifth graders' reading comprehension

The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of English storybooks (printed or interactive) on comprehension. In accordance with this purpose the study question is that "To what extent do digital and interactive English storybooks effect the fifth graders' reading comrehension?" The research was conducted in accordance with descriptive survey model. The first study group consists of 57 randomly chosen 5th grades students who study in Darıcı Secondary School, Kestel Secondary School and Kınık Secondary School in 2014-2015 education year in Kütahya, Simav. The second study group consists of 20 students who were chosen randomly from the first study group. At first 6 equivalent English storybooks were determined by the groupwork with 3 English language teachers and a field expert. 5 open-ended comprehension questions-based on simple and deep understanding about the storybooks were formed. Firstly, the students were asked to read 3 different printed storybooks. After reading books, the students were given comprehension questions about the books and they were asked to answer these questions in written form. Then, the same process was carried out with 3 different interactive storybooks. In the last stage of the research, an interview was conducted and 6 different questions were asked to the students. By these questions it was aimed to understand students' opinions about interactive storybooks. The data obtained from semi-structured interviews were analyzed with descriptive and content analysis method. Findings of the research are summarized below: There is a statistically meaningful difference between the reading comprehension scores of the students on the interactive storybooks and on the printed books. The codes as "general view, preferences, attractiveness and health" emerged from students' opinions about interactive storybooks. Most of the students in the research stated that they liked the interactive books. Besides, majority of the students stated that they wanted all of their books in interactive form. Visuals, sound, touching the screen, moving visuals etc. got the attention of the students. Most of the students pointed out that interactive storybooks were not harmful to their health. But some students said that they had eye fatigue and pain in their hands.