THE IMPACT OF ONLINE ARTICLES ON SECOND LANGUAGE READING COMPREHENSION AND VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The utilization of digital texts has emerged as a pivotal methodology for enhancing second language (L2) reading comprehension and vocabulary acquisition. Online articles provide language learners with authentic linguistic exposure, interactive features, and immediate access to geographically and textually diverse materials. This study investigates the influence of digital reading environments on the comprehension strategies and vocabulary acquisition of L2 learners. Extant research indicates that digital reading environments significantly bolster reading fluency, macro-structural understanding, contextual interpretation, and critical thinking skills. Furthermore, online articles facilitate incidental vocabulary acquisition through recurrent exposure to unfamiliar lexical items within meaningful contexts. Embedded technological features-such as hyperlinks, multimedia content, integrated digital dictionaries, and hypermedia glosses-further mitigate comprehension barriers, allowing learners to decode complex vocabulary and syntactic structures more effectively.