Reading comprehension. A conceptual analysis from information processing theory

Abstract

From the information processing perspective, this article provides a brief theoretical overview of reading comprehension. Comprehension is understood as a particular facet of a broader process, involving different levels of processing (micro and macro processes) that interact. Special attention is given to schema theory as a representation of knowledge and its influence on comprehension. Greater depth is devoted to the theoretical model of Kintsch and Van Dijk, which posits that semantic structure is organized at macro- and microstructural levels, linked by macrorules applied under the control of a schema. Finally, instructional programs aimed at improving comprehension are briefly discussed.