The Voice of Evidence in Reading Research


Book Description

A masterful synthesis of information from leading experts in the field, this accessible resource helps school administrators, educators, and specialists answer complex questions about scientifically based reading research and make informed choices about t







Computers As Cognitive Tools


Book Description

Highlighting and illustrating several important and interesting theoretical trends that have emerged in the continuing development of instructional technology, this book's organizational framework is based on the notion of two opposing camps. One evolves out of the intelligent tutoring movement, which employs artificial-intelligence technologies in the service of student modeling and precision diagnosis, and the other emerges from a constructivist/developmental perspective that promotes exploration and social interaction, but tends to reject the methods and goals of the student modelers. While the notion of opposing camps tends to create an artificial rift between groups of researchers, it represents a conceptual distinction that is inherently more interesting and informative than the relatively meaningless divide often drawn between "intelligent" and "unintelligent" instructional systems. An evident trend is that researchers in both "camps" view their computer learning environments as "cognitive tools" that can enhance learning, performance, and understanding. Cognitive tools are objects provided by the instructional environment that allow students to incorporate new auxiliary methods or symbols into their social problem solving which otherwise would be unavailable. A final section of the book represents researchers who are assimilating and accommodating the wisdom and creativity of their neighbors from both camps, perhaps forming the look of technology for the future. When the idea of model tracing in a computer-based environment is combined with appreciation for creative mind-extension cognitive tools and for how a community of learners can facilitate learning, a camp is created where AI technologists and social constructivist learning theorists can feel equally at home.







Computer-aided Instruction and Learning Disabled Students


Book Description

This study investigates the use of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) with speech feedback with a group of students who, to this point had received reading instruction [only] through the basal reading approach. The study investigates CAI as an effective technique to improve reading skills of readers with learning disabilities, as well as change their perceptions of reading.







Computer Applications in Reading


Book Description

Intended as a reference for researchers, teachers, and administrators, this book chronicles research, programs, and uses of computers in reading. Chapter 1 provides a broad view of computer applications in education, while Chapter 2 provides annotated references for computer based reading and language arts programs for children and adults in classroom and clinic settings, including LOGO, cloze procedure, language experience approach, special education, spelling, Native American education, and English as a second/foreign language. Chapter 3 introduces the reader to software evaluation guidelines and criteria, including references about the development of computer based reading programs and projects. Chapter 4 reviews computer based research on teaching reading, reading assessment, and psychological and physiological aspects of the reading process. Chapter 5 presents references on word processing, writing, and reading, and Chapter 6 offers explanations for the puzzling questions surrounding computer based readability and text analysis. References to computer based activities in reading readiness and beginning reading are presented in chapter 7, while chapter 8 discusses computer managed reading instruction. Chapter 9 details advances in computer based speech technology and reading instruction and the focus in chapter 10 is on text legibility and computers. Chapter 11 provides references about recent developments with CD ROMs (Compact Disk Read Only Memory) and CDIs (compact disk interactive), and chapter 12 summarizes by speculating on the importance of other emerging applications in computer based reading, such as simulations, artificial intelligence, programming and authoring systems, telecommunications and satellite communications, and robots. Two appendixes list companies that produce software and describe integrated learning systems that contain reading and language arts software. (SKC)