EFL Learners’ Metacognitive Strategy Use in Reading Tests

Abstract

Reading comprehension, an important ability in second language acquisition, is believed to take place at the metacognitive level where planning, monitoring, and evaluating are involved. Metacognitive strategies carry out an executive function over cognitive strategies, which, in turn, impact reading test performance. Whereas most research has focused on general language learning strategies rather than those in testing situations, this study investigates the metacognitive strategies used by high- and low-proficiency readers in testing situations. Four university EFL learners were selected based on their English reading proficiency, and data were collected using a think-aloud protocol, stimulated recall, and a follow-up interview. Results show that while the number and variety of metacognitive strategies used by both groups were not of a striking difference, the effectiveness and flexibility of strategy use during testing situations seemed to determine reading performance. Finally, pedagogical implications for teachers wishing to assist EFL learners to employ effective reading strategies are discussed.