Using think-aloud protocol in self-regulated reading research

Abstract

This paper reviews studies that have used think aloud protocol to explore self-regulated reading process. The review intends to identify its major contributions and key methodological concerns related to the use of think-aloud protocol in self-regulated reading research. It addresses the following three questions: 1) what does think-aloud protocol enable researchers to learn about self-regulated reading?; 2) what methodological concerns do researchers have when using think-aloud protocol to explore self-regulated reading?; and 3) how can these concerns be addressed when designing think-aloud protocol for self-regulated reading research? In light of this review, suggestions are provided for further discussion on methodological issues in self-regulated reading research. Such discussions will inform researchers’ efforts to use think-aloud methods in self-regulated reading research.