Kids can learn how to read when taught remotely: A new experiment

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced schools to close nationwide, students of all ages turned to remote learning on screens. 

A study by the University of Washington's Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences found that children can develop key reading skills through virtual classrooms. 

Now, scientists are sure that you can learn your preschoolers how to read even without them attending "real" school.

More about the study

The study introduced a two-week "Reading Camp" program to 83 5-year-olds in fall 2020, demonstrating that online instruction can effectively teach skills like phonological awareness and letter-sound knowledge. 

The online approach not only proved effective, but also has the potential to reach a larger number of students remotely. 

The study's lead author, Patricia Kuhl, highlighted the excitement of being able to offer such programs worldwide.

The remote Reading Camp provided interactive sessions with small, six-person classrooms led by trained instructors. 

The results

Despite initial doubts, the study revealed that children could effectively learn and engage online, emphasizing the significance of methodology and social interaction. 

The researchers plan to continue these online reading camps and explore their impact on brain development through additional studies.
 

• Related news:
• research
• reading
• children
• 8 August 2023

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