Three Perspectives on Comprehension

This article begins by comparing the processes involved in comprehending spoken and written language. Two alternative views of comprehension are presented. It is argued that comprehension is more than the processes used to construct meaning. Meaning is the result of transactions that occur between speakers and listeners and readers and texts. This view of reading acknowledges the indeterminacy of language; language is ambiguous and can be interpreted in different ways. Meaning can also be processed at different levels. These different views of comprehension should lead to changes in the way comprehension is assessed and taught.