Applying Online Reading Comprehension Theory: A Comparative Study of Online and Offline Reading Practices Using ReadTheory among Saudi University Students

In this study I examine the differential reading behavior in online and paper reading among university students, investigating their perception, strategy use, and reading proficiency. Using a mixed-methods approach, I used IBM SPSS Statistics software to conduct quantitative and thematic analyses of open-ended. Results demonstrated participants prefer online reading because it allows for flexibility, faster pace, and interactive engagement than reading print copies does. However, some reading strategies were consistent regardless of medium. Stimulation through ReadTheory engagement increased motivation and perception of skills but did not result in statistically significant proficiency gains. This highlights student reading’s increasingly changing environment and provides insight into improving understanding of digital literacy in a higher education context.