Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) Yogyakarta recently hosted the Indonesian Extensive Reading Association (IERA) Roadshow on November 5, 2024. The event, held at the Koinonia Auditorium, included a seminar and a mini-workshop focused on extensive reading and project-based learning (PBL), attended by English teachers and librarians from Yogyakarta and surrounding areas. The Roadshow continued the following day at Universitas Sanata Dharma.
In his opening remarks, UKDW Rector Dr.-Ing. Wiyatiningsih, S.T., M.T. highlighted the crucial role of extensive reading and libraries in enhancing the learning process. “We hope this event inspires us all to create more effective and impactful learning environments,” she stated.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Loh Chin Ee, an Associate Professor in the Department of English Language and Literature and Associate Dean for Partnerships at the National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, introduced the theme “Connecting Libraries with Classrooms through Project-Based Learning.” Dr. Loh emphasized that libraries should not only serve as information centers but also as dynamic learning spaces that support PBL and inspire student engagement with reading.
Dr. Loh stressed the importance of integrating libraries with classroom learning to improve reading comprehension. She identified three key components for success: libraries as learning environments, creative ideas for PBL, and the integration of extensive reading materials. “Libraries can be transformed into active, supportive spaces for learning when they are designed to be comfortable and aligned with students’ developmental needs,” she explained.
For PBL in libraries, Dr. Loh outlined several essential elements: authentic materials, student-centered learning, collaboration among students, and skilled librarian support. “When libraries are well-designed, they can actively contribute to the learning process and enhance students’ literacy skills,” she said.
Uswatun Hasanah, M.IP., Secretary of the Indonesian School Library Association, shared strategies for encouraging students to engage with libraries, while Martini, M.Hum., a teacher from SMAN 1 Sedayu, discussed how teachers can collaborate with librarians in PBL to enhance the learning experience.
Additionally, Ignatius Tri Endarto, S.Pd., M.A., Head of the English Education Department at UKDW, addressed the growing impact of digital distractions, such as smartphones and social media, which have led to reduced reading habits among students. “Studies show a decline in the time students dedicate to reading, both for pleasure and academics,” he said. “In education, it’s crucial for us to understand why reading is so essential for students’ development.”
The seminar and workshop aimed to explore the power of extensive reading as a tool for language acquisition and literacy development and its application in project-based learning. “This event will be a valuable learning experience for all of us,” concluded Endarto. “Let’s embrace the power of extensive reading and commit to being lifelong learners and educators.” [humasukdw/trans.drr]