Faculty of Education and Human Sciences

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Browsing Faculty of Education and Human Sciences by Advisor "Julius, Lukas H."

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    Investigating factors that hinder reading comprehension in English second language of grade 4 learners: A case of selected primary schools in the Kavango west region, Namibia
    (University of Namibia, 2025) Nairenge, Alpheus Ngoma; Julius, Lukas H.
    The main aim of this research was to investigate the multifaceted factors that impede reading comprehension in English Second Language of Grade Four learners using a case of selected primary schools in the Kavango West region, in Namibia. Strong reading comprehension skills are fundamental to understanding and mastering academic content across all subjects, however, many English teachers at the Lower Primary Phase face challenges in teaching reading comprehension fluently. This study adopts a qualitative research method to investigate the interplay of socio-economic, instructional and individual variables. The researcher used non-probability sampling, that is, convenience and judgmental sampling. The total sample size was ten Grade 4 English Language teachers. Through extensive literature review, classroom observations and structured interviews, the research identifies key findings such as limited access to reading resources, ineffective teaching methodologies and diverse learner backgrounds. Some of the challenges that teachers faced when teaching reading comprehension were ascribed to a lack of reading materials in English accessible to all learners. Additionally, a lack of self-efficacy was also noted as teachers felt frustrated in implementing reading strategies because of heavy workloads and parents’ limited involvement with their children’s schoolwork. The findings of this research offer valuable insights into the nuanced barriers faced by Grade 4 learners, enabling educators, policymakers and stakeholders to implement targeted interventions. Some of the interventions recommended in this research include more varied teaching approaches to be applied when teaching. The research further recommends that teachers need to be patient when teaching learners how to read comprehension so that they attend to all the learners’ needs, whether highfliers or slow learners. The government should build more schools and classrooms to prevent the overcrowding of classrooms