The ideal reader perception of pre-service teachers

Abstract

Literature theories presented till the last quarter of 20th century has carried out criticism by considering either text, writer or the period of the writer has grown up. On the other hand; theories such as reader response theories, reception theory, feminist criticism place the reader in the center of the criticism. Accordingly, it is necessary to work on concept of reader and to define perception of participants about ideal reader. The current study is conducted to determine pre-service teachers’ ideas and evaluation of “ideal reader”. In the study, it is emphasized by the participants that ideal reader is anyone who comprehend, interpret and criticize the text. Moreover, ideal reader was perceived as receptor, trainee by participants; that’s why, he was likened to an obese, library, consumer in a market. Nevertheless, friends and family members were referred as ideal readers, especially teachers. Furthermore, it can be said that participants have pragmatist perspective about reading and they read for pleasure and information.

Literature theories presented till the last quarter of 20th century has carried out criticism by considering either text, writer or the period of the writer has grown up. On the other hand; theories such as reader response theories, reception theory, feminist criticism place the reader in the center of the criticism. Accordingly, it is necessary to work on concept of reader and to define perception of participants about ideal reader. The current study is conducted to determine pre-service teachers’ ideas and evaluation of “ideal reader”. In the study, it is emphasized by the participants that ideal reader is anyone who comprehend, interpret and criticize the text. Moreover, ideal reader was perceived as receptor, trainee by participants; that’s why, he was likened to an obese, library, consumer in a market. Nevertheless, friends and family members were referred as ideal readers, especially teachers. Furthermore, it can be said that participants have pragmatist perspective about reading and they read for pleasure and information.