TEACHER'S PERCEPTIONS OF ENGLISH READING HABITS AMONG EIGHTH-GRADE STUDENTS AT MTS NURUL QODIRI, CENTRAL LAMPUNG

Abstract

This study aims to explore an English teacher's perceptions of eighth-grade students' English reading habits and identify the factors influencing these habits at MTs Nurul Qodiri, Central Lampung. This research employed a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were collected through classroom observations, a semi-structured interview with one English teacher, and documentation of students' reading activities. Observations were conducted to examine students' reading practices during English lessons, while the interview explored the teacher's perspectives, evaluations, and expectations regarding students' reading habits. The findings reveal that the English teacher considers English reading habits important for developing students' language skills. However, students' reading habits still need improvement, particularly in terms of their participation in reading activities and their engagement in independent reading. Several factors influencing students' reading habits include limited vocabulary, low reading motivation, insufficient exposure to English reading materials outside the classroom, and limited availability of interesting and age-appropriate reading materials. Furthermore, the teacher reported using several strategies to encourage students to read, including reading aloud, providing short stories, selecting materials related to students' daily lives, and introducing digital reading materials. These findings highlight the importance of appropriate instructional strategies and a supportive reading environment involving teachers, schools, and parents in developing students' English reading habits.

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