Examining Constructs in Reading Comprehension Using Two Presentation Modes: Paper vs. Computer

This study examined the processes of reading comprehension using paper presentation compared to computer presentation. Computers are increasingly being used more as a mode for instruction in schools, however, no study was identified that provides explanations regarding underlying reading comprehension processes or constructs. To examine constructs of reading comprehension, a text recall measure was employed. Additionally, to examine reading comprehension in an interactive mode a highlighting task was used. In the memory recall measure, a significant main effect was found for rhetorical type (collection over causal) but not for mode of presentation or for idea units. Findings were consistent with Meyer's results [1–3]. In using an on-line measure of highlighting, a significant main effect was found for mode of presentation (paper over computer). It would be expected under Meyer's constructs that there would be a difference by rhetorical type; however, no differences were found. The conclusion of this study is that reading comprehension constructs appear to be the same between computer presentation and paper presentation of text. However, when readers interact with text via computer (highlighting task) there appear to be different comprehension constructs evoked.