Understanding the science of reading is essential when evaluating literacy programs and requires examining research evidence behind program claims.
Explicit and systematic instruction, along with ample opportunities for practice, are key elements for effective reading instruction and skill development.
Deep dives
Understanding the Science of Reading and Evaluating Programs
The podcast episode explores the importance of understanding the science of reading when evaluating literacy programs. The guest, Holly Lane, discusses how to determine if a program is aligned with the science of reading, the difference between research-based and evidence-based approaches, and the concept of explicit and systematic instruction. She emphasizes the need for clear and unambiguous instruction, a logical scope and sequence, and ample opportunities for practice to develop automaticity. Holly also highlights the challenges of finding programs with strong research evidence and calls for more rigorous evaluation of educational programs.
The Science of Reading: Clear Definition and Misconceptions
Holly Lane addresses the common misconceptions surrounding the term 'science of reading.' She explains that the science of reading is not a specific method or instruction approach, but rather the accumulated body of evidence on how children learn to read. Holly emphasizes the importance of understanding the research-backed principles and practices that support reading instruction. She cautions against relying solely on claims of program alignment with the science of reading without examining the actual research evidence behind the program.
Research-Based vs. Evidence-Based Approaches
Holly Lane clarifies the difference between research-based and evidence-based approaches. She explains that research-based approaches are developed using existing research findings but may not align closely with the actual research. On the other hand, evidence-based approaches involve conducting studies to evaluate the effectiveness of a program or method. Holly encourages critical examination of the quality of evidence, highlighting the need for randomized control trials and the limitations of anecdotal evidence and correlational studies.
Explicit and Systematic Instruction for Reading
Holly Lane discusses the importance of explicit and systematic instruction in reading. She defines explicit instruction as clear, direct, and unambiguous, focusing on making concepts and skills clearly understood. Systematic instruction involves organizing skills and concepts logically, building on prior knowledge. Holly emphasizes the need for ample opportunities to practice skills and develop automaticity. She highlights the significance of interleave practice, where previous concepts are continuously practiced alongside new ones, to promote long-term retention and automaticity.
Ever wonder how to decipher the Science of Reading or how to evaluate a curriculum that claims to be founded on it? We've got an episode just for you. Today, we're thrilled to welcome Holly Lane, a leading expert in the field, who will help us unlock this complex topic. Holly does an incredible job of breaking down the differences between research and evidence-based approaches, and she reveals what the terms 'explicit' and 'systematic' really mean.
Holly delves into the world of research design, the challenges of conducting these trials, and why correlation isn’t always causation. She shares firsthand experiences from her journey creating UFLI Foundations and the significance of field testing and teacher input in program evaluation.
Holly shares her perspective on the importance of practice in education, providing practical strategies to promote automaticity in foundational skills. She also offers pointers on how to interpret research and reports from publishers without getting swayed by the hype. As we all know, not all that glitters is gold – and this is particularly true in the world of educational research. After listening to this episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of the Science of Reading. Trust us - it's an episode you don't want to miss.
