Global reading strategies in a second language: How far can scanpath analyses take us

This study examined global eye-movement reading behavior in a second language (L2) using a scanpath-based approach with the Multilingual Eye Movement Corpus L2 dataset. Specifically, utilizing data from 443 bilingual participants from 11 diverse L1 backgrounds reading 12 English (L2) texts, we investigated 1) the stability of individual reading strategies across texts, 2) cross-linguistic influences of the first language (L1), 3) correspondences between L1 and L2 eye-movement behavior, and 4) the relationship between global reading strategies, L2 comprehension, and L2 proficiency. The analyses that employed the scasim method to quantify scanpath (dis)similarity, that is, how similar global reading strategies are within and between participants and across languages, revealed that individual L2 reading behavior was consistent across L2 texts, but L1 scanpaths did not reliably predict L2 scanpaths. L1 background left a weak but detectable imprint on L2 scanpaths. Finally, global L2 reading behavior was significantly associated with L2 comprehension accuracy and proficiency, with more typical scanpaths linked to better comprehension and higher proficiency. We discuss the results in relation to traditional word-level analyses in L2 reading and emphasize the added value of a scanpath-based approach for assessing global reading behavior cross-linguistically.