Reading Environments and Habits of Students in Grades 4 to 6

As part of its new strategy for Education & Life Skills programming in Cambodia, World Vision (WV) has conducted a series of assessments across WV’s nine target provinces in 2016. An initial study observed reading resources that children had access to at school by analysing the conditions of libraries compared to the national standards for school libraries (MoEYS, 2011). This survey follows from this and is a quantitative survey about the reading experiences, habits and environments of 507 students in grades 4 to 6 (from 39 schools across Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Thom, Kampong Speu, Kandal, Preah Vihea, Takeo and Siem Reap).

The purpose of the study is to help WV develop improved strategies that will increase the impact of education programming, and advocate to the Royal Government of Cambodia, and other key stakeholders, for changes that will improve the education of every child in the country.

The survey produced significant findings; however, also has limitations. The main limitations included difficulties in student selection due to the different school “shifts” at primary schools, challenges in reaching some schools after rain reduced access and road conditions, and a lower number of schools with no library than originally planned.

The attached report has been edited to enhance clarity. This version replaces the September 4th 2016 version.