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

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.