Learners’ Perceptions and Attitudes towards the Use of Mind-mapping Technique in Enhancing their Understanding of Short Stories - Part 12 Issue 10 - 2022 study findings

Sep 10, 2026

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Learners’ proficiency in ESL depends strongly on reading comprehension, yet short stories are frequently challenging due to linguistic and cultural elements embedded in the texts. Part 2 Diploma students in Universiti Teknologi MARA Perak complete short-story readings within their English syllabus, where mind-mapping supports understanding by linking ideas through relationship ties. A survey using a 5-Likert scale with 60 students was analyzed in SPSS to examine perceptions and attitudes. Results show positive attitudes and perceived usefulness, supporting continued use in reading classes.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryPaper Templates

FormatPDF

Pages13

Reading Time5 min

AccessFree to download

Introduction

Improving reading skills through reading for pleasure

Using short stories to improve reading skills

Using a mind-mapping technique to understand short stories

Vol 12, Issue 10,(2022) E-ISSN: 2222-6990 Learners’ Perceptions and Attitudes towards the Use of Mind-mapping Technique in Enhancing their Understanding of Short Stories Noraziah Azizan, Shazila Abdullah, Nuramira Anuar, Mirrah Diyana Maznun Academy of Language Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA Perak, 32610 Seri Iskandar, Perak, Malaysia Corresponding Authors Email: [noraz270@uitm.edu.my](noraz270@uitm.edu.my) To Link this Article: [http://dx.doi.org/10.6007/IJARBSS/v12-i10/15065](http://dx.doi.org/10.6007/IJARBSS/v12-i10/15065) DOI:10 .6007/IJARBSS/v12-i10/15065 Published Date: 20 October 2022 Abstract Learners’ proficiency in ESL includes their ability in comprehending a reading text. Short stories are often found difficult due to linguistic and cultural elements found in the texts. Despite this, Part 2 Diploma students in Universiti Teknologi MARA Perak are required to read a selection of short stories as part of their English class syllabus. In this study, a mind mapping technique is used to assist learners to understand the short stories well. This technique is chosen as its concept involves the process of associating ideas and information through relationship ties. 60 students from 2 English classes were introduced to this mind-mapping technique which they had to apply when discussing the plot of the story and the traits of the main character to ascertain their understanding of the short story. Although the students managed to complete the task well, it was not known whether the mind-mapping technique had helped them in enhancing their understanding of the short stories. Therefore, this paper aims to find out their perceptions and attitudes towards the use of mind-maps in comprehending short stories through a survey questionnaire using 5-Likert scale. The data from the survey underwent a statistical analysis using SPSS before discussing the findings. The findings revealed that the respondents of this study had a positive attitude towards the use of mind-map and perceived it as a useful tool in helping them to understand short stories. Thus, the mind-mapping technique should continue to be used in reading class to help learners to enhance their comprehension of short stories. Keywords: ESL, Learners’ Perception, Mind- Mapping Technique, Reading Skills, Short Story. Introduction Reading English is a crucial component of language learning because it aids in the development of other competencies such as vocabulary, grammar, and writing. Reading also allows language learners to explore topics and ideas that they are interested in. Next, having good reading skills will enable students to understand better what they have read, thus helping them use the knowledge and ideas for other purposes in learning such as writing, presenting, reporting and other essential learning abilities. Besides, reading also serves as the window to the outside world. The more reading is done; the more knowledge gained. Kaya (2015) in his research, finds that students have improved their reading comprehension when they are taught reading skills first to provide them with specific techniques to reach optimum grasp of ideas. Instructors do not focus only on academic reading but also vary the materials and techniques using pleasure reading. Improving reading skills through reading for pleasure Pleasure reading refers to the act of reading for enjoyment in one’s free time outside classroom hours. It also refers to reading that we do out of willingness or due to someone else's request and get satisfaction from it because we enjoy it (Clark and Rumbold, 2006) Does reading for pleasure develop literacy among students? According to Clark and Rumbold (2006), There are numerous examples that demonstrate the relevance of pleasure reading for both educational and personal progress. Twist (2007) also found strong relevance between the amount of pleasure reading and their achievement in reading class. In Malaysia, from primary to

FAQs

Why are short stories difficult for ESL learners?

Short stories can be difficult due to linguistic and cultural elements present in the texts, which affects comprehension.

How does the mind-mapping technique help learners understand short stories?

It helps learners connect ideas and information through relationship ties, supporting comprehension and recall of the storyline using structured notes.

What do the findings say about learners’ attitudes toward mind maps?

Respondents show a positive attitude and perceive mind-maps as a useful tool for understanding short stories, so the technique should continue in reading classes.

Sep 10, 2026

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