I researched, wrote and defended a thesis as part of the requirements of the Fulbright Honors College at the University of Arkansas. With my thesis work, I was able to graduate Summa Cum Laude.
Readability of newspapers in Arkansas compared to
regional papers around the nation
Abstract: Newspaper readability plays an important role in how well people perceive and understand the paper. A text’s reading level is one of the main contributors to the document’s readability, so testing articles’ reading level is a way to gauge how a newspaper is serving an area. Newspaper reading levels are also a reflection of the community. Historically, Arkansas has had low reading and literacy levels. Using an average of five readability calculators, this study tests the readability of Arkansas newspapers in comparison to reading levels of newspapers around the nation. Arkansas newspapers averaged nearly a full reading level lower than the other papers, showing that Arkansas still has room for improvement to become competitive nationally. Newspapers face a lot of competition from other types of media, so testing readability is an excellent tool for editors to strike a balance between informing and educating their readers, ensuring appeal and comprehension.
Read the full thesis here.
Shawnya Meyers 