ERIC Number: EJ799231
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2008-May
Pages: 19
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0270-2711
EISSN: N/A
Using an Interactive Singing Software Program: A Comparative Study of Struggling Middle School Readers
Biggs, Marie C.; Homan, Susan P.; Dedrick, Robert; Minick, Vanessa; Rasinski, Timothy
Reading Psychology, v29 n3 p195-213 May 2008
Software that teaches users to sing in tune and in rhythm while providing real-time pitch tracking was used in a study of struggling middle school readers. The software, Carry-a-Tune (CAT) was originally developed to improve singing; however, since it involves a repeated reading format, we used it to determine its effect on comprehension and reading achievement. Twenty-four students in grades 7 and 8 utilized the software program for 30 minutes, three times a week for 9 weeks. A matched control group of 24 students had a different reading experience during the same time period. The mean pretest instructional reading level for both groups was fourth grade. The mean instructional level scores for the treatment group improved significantly (7 months during the 9-week study). The matched control group students did not experience gains. Sustainability data from assessment 4 months after the study's conclusion indicated treatment students gained another 6 months. This placed them solidly in mid-fifth grade for instructional reading level. The control students, again, evidenced no significant gains. (Contains 1 table and 1 figure.)
Descriptors: Matched Groups, Reading Comprehension, Singing, Reading Instruction, Reading Achievement, Computer Software, Comparative Analysis, Grade 7, Grade 8, Reading Difficulties, Educational Technology, Computer Assisted Instruction, Middle School Students, Reading Improvement, Learning Motivation, Learning Strategies, Student Motivation, Rural Schools
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education; Grade 7; Grade 8; Middle Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Florida
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
What Works Clearinghouse Reviewed: Does Not Meet Evidence Standards
WWC Study Page: https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/study/89401