Integrating a Web-Based E-portfolio to Enhance EFL Learners’ Reading Skills

General English courses at universities are usually too short in length and do not lead to successful language learning. Therefore, it is necessary to extend learning beyond the classroom and prepare learners for self-study. To address this need, based on Reinders’ notion of personal learning environments and Day and Robb’s principles for out-of-class reading, a Web-based e-portfolio system was developed through the integration of a virtual learning environment (website) and personal learning environments (e-portfolios). The system was designed to enhance General English learners’ independent reading practice by employing its principles for out-of-class reading. To ensure learners’ intention to use the system following the course, the determinants of the Self-Determination Theory and the Technology Acceptance Model were taken into consideration. The system was implemented in two English as a Foreign Language (EFL) contexts, Japan and Iran. Learners actively participated in reading practice beyond the classroom for the whole of the General English course, which lasted 15 weeks. Moreover, some learners continued practicing independently after the course concluded.