The Use of Computer-Assisted Instruction to Improve the Reading Comprehension of Students With Learning Disabilities: An Evaluation of the Evidence Base According to the What Works Clearinghouse Standards

2017 ◽  
Vol 38 (4) ◽  
pp. 233-245 ◽  
Author(s):  
Min Kyung Kim ◽  
John William McKenna ◽  
Yujeong Park

The purpose of this study was to investigate the evidence base for using computer-assisted instruction (CAI) to improve the reading comprehension of students with learning disabilities (LD). Twelve peer-reviewed studies (seven comparison group studies, five single-case studies) met selection criteria and were evaluated according to the relevant What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) procedures and standards. Results showed that seven studies (five comparison group and two single-case studies) met WWC standards with or without reservations. Key instructional features employed in CAI studies meeting the WWC standards without reservations included practice opportunities, self-correction and immediate corrective feedback, teacher-directed instruction, and contingencies for enhancing student motivation and engagement. Implications for future research and suggestions for using quality indicators to improve the rigor of future CAI investigations are discussed.

2020 ◽  
pp. 109830072092968
Author(s):  
Lauren M. LeJeune ◽  
Christopher J. Lemons

Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) require intensive supports, including those that target behavior, to make progress on literacy goals. In this study, we investigated whether computer-assisted instruction (CAI) may be one effective method to decrease challenging behavior and increase academic engagement. Participants were three students with IDD (7 to 9 years old) who engaged in challenging behaviors during instruction. We used a single-case alternating treatments design to compare levels of challenging behavior and academic engagement during paper-based and CAI (i.e., tablet computer-based) literacy instruction. Results indicated that CAI was associated with decreased challenging behavior and increased academic engagement for two of three participants. In addition, the CAI condition corresponded with higher scores on academic performance assessments for one participant. Although teacher and student measures of social validity were positive, there was limited evidence that results maintained. These findings are described in relation to their limitations, future directions for research, and impact on practitioners.


1986 ◽  
Vol 33 (5) ◽  
pp. 2
Author(s):  
Nancy Bley

The past ten or fifteen years have produced numerous changes in the field of education, particularly in mathematic. Many advances have been made in teacher education programs, in the use of mechanical aids, and particularly in the area of computers and computer-assisted instruction. At the same time awarenes has increased of the need to deal more effectively with students with special needs, or those more commonly described as having learning disabilities.


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