Evaluating the Promise of Computer-based Reading Interventions with Students with Reading Difficulties

Sekhar S. Pindiprolu*, **
* Assistant Professor, ECPSE, The University of Toledo, Ohio.
** Director of Special Education Services, Cache County School District, Logan, Utah.
Periodicity:December - February'2009
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jsch.4.3.588

Abstract

The ability to read is essential to school-based learning and skilled responding in an information rich society. Unfortunately, many students in today’s schools do not become skilled readers. Many reading researchers (Blachman 1996, 1997; Felton, 1993; Fletcher & Lyon, 1998; Torgesen, 1997) agree that the vast majority of problems experienced by early readers can be prevented through appropriate, explicit, and comprehensive early instruction. Previous research also indicates that parents/families can have a positive influence on the children’s reading abilities. However, parents may not have the skills to teach reading in an explicit and systematic manner. It is here that the computer-based reading programs, which are systematic and explicit in their instruction, hold great promise.

This preliminary investigation examined the effects of two parent implemented computer-based reading programs (Funnix and Headsprout) on the reading skills of 25 students at-risk for reading failure. All students were pre and post-tested on the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills. All parents were provided one-on-one training by the researchers. Treatment fidelity data was collected.  Further, a questionnaire was administered with parents and students to elicit their perceptions of the effectiveness and desirability of the programs. The results indicated that computer-based programs were effective in increasing certain basic early literacy skills of students at-risk for reading failure. A description of the computer programs, results (effect sizes and statistically significant results), implications, and limitations of the study will be discussed.

Keywords

Computer-Based Reading Programs, Phonemic Awareness, Parent-Implemented Interventions, Funnix, Headsprout, DIBELS, Social Validity.

How to Cite this Article?

Sekhar S. Pindiprolu And David Forbush (2009). Evaluating The Promise Of Computer-Based Reading Interventions With Students With Reading Difficulties. i-manager’s Journal on School Educational Technology. 5(3), 41-49. https://doi.org/10.26634/jsch.4.3.588

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