L1 glossing and strategy training for improving L2 reading comprehension: a meta-analysis

Extensive research on the effects of interventions to improve L2 reading has been conducted yet the results are often not conclusive. The present research synthesis intends to provide a more accurate measurement of studies that have attempted to improve L2 reading comprehension. It includes 62 studies conducted on either explicit reading strategy training (ERST) or native language (L1) glosses. Besides updating past meta-analyses conducted on ERST and L1 glossing, it concludes that reading comprehension can be more effective (g = .64) whether through glossing or ERST. Moderating variables were identified and analysed, including type of intervention, learning context, test task and learning level.