What is active reading?

Active reading is a deep learning process and can be simply defined as reading for understanding. This involves students critically engaging with their texts. Some of the ways this can be done is by:

• evaluating the quality of texts

• examining and summarising  their underlying meanings

• metacognitively checking their understanding

• situating the texts in context

Why the need for active reading?

Many students report feeling overwhelmed by the volume and content of reading at university. They report feeling stressed, disengaged and alone, and this often coincides with negative feelings towards their academic reading and studies.

Another important factor to keep in mind is that once students feel confident reading their academic texts actively, the quality of their academic writing will inevitably be improved, making it a win-win situation.

Evidence also suggests that if students are actively reading their academic texts, then ultimately, their level of enjoyment for their studies will increase, creating more embedded learning.

More information on how to support your students with academic reading can be found in the slides below and by listening to the podcast.

Elevate web guidance on Active Reading can be found here.

Read Dr Will Mason's and Dr Meesha Warmington's blog post on 'Fighting the academic machine: Using illustration to depict student reading experiences' here.