Pros and Cons of Computer Reading Programs

Pros and Cons of Computer Reading Programs

The pros and cons of computer reading programs have been greatly debated over the years. Multimedia programs can be very beneficial for young children. Research shows that children who see a story’s action animated are more likely to remember it. Plus, computer programs enable children to hear a story repeated many times until they master its language. But there’s no substitute for a parent reading to a child. Parents can mediate the process and help a child connect their book to their own lives. This is critical to the learning process. Teachers also play a critical role because they are with children several hours a day over many months.

Pros and cons of computer reading programs: Evaluation
To better understand the pros and cons of computer reading programs, it is important for a parent to make sense of the Web site or CD. They should ask questions like: Is the program age appropriate? Is the font size suitable for your child? Is there too much text on each screen? Is the vocabulary level suitable? Does the program encourage a sense of discovery? Does it allow your child to solve problems and make his own decisions? Does the program offer intelligent feedback? When a child makes a mistake, how does the program respond? Is the educational content presented systematically? Are there opportunities for children to demonstrate what they know days and even weeks after the initial lesson? Does the program keep track of your child’s progress? How does the program encourage independent learning? What choices can your child make as they play along? How easily can your child control the features? Are the audio instructions and feedback clear? Does the program include information for parents that clearly outlines the educational goals? What is the balance between the entertainment and instruction?

Every child is different. Whether you are purchasing software, borrowing DVDs from the library, or visiting online learning sites, remember some basic notions about literacy education. Every child learns to read at their own pace. No two children become literate in the same way. Multiple approaches, including technology, are useful. Animated adventure programs, for example, can motivate your child as they read online storybooks and practices phonics, word recognition and other early literacy skills. One of the strengths of this program is that its activities adapt depending on your child’s abilities, so they can learn at their own pace. Learning to read is a very gradual process. There is no program that will turn your child into a reader overnight. As long as they are presented with a variety of approaches, and receive support from you, they will most likely develop into a skilled reader. At LearningRx, we take reading seriously. We understand the value of strong reading skills and how they will impact a person throughout their life. For more information on how we can help, call a LearningRx Center near you or check us out at www.learningrx.com.

Computer Reading Programs - Learn More!






Get the specific answers you need. Call one of our learning experts today.

Find a LearningRx Center





   

Social Bookmark It: