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Using Primary Language Support via Computer to Improve Reading Comprehension Skills of First-Grade English Language Learners
Computers in the Schools (2012)
  • Cathi Draper Rodríguez, California State University, Monterey Bay
  • John Filler, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
  • Kyle Higgins, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Abstract
Through this exploratory study the authors investigated the effects of primary language support delivered via computer on the English reading comprehension skills of English language learners. Participants were 28 First-grade students identified as Limited English Proficient. The primary language of all participants was Spanish. Students were assigned to two groups for an 8-week intervention period. Treatment Group 1 used a computer-based literacy program with English oral language instructions. Treatment Group 2 used a computer-based literacy program with Spanish oral language instructions. Data indicated that all participants experienced significant growth in fluency, word reading, and passage comprehension. Results revealed no significant difference between the two groups in the areas of fluency or word reading. However, the students who received Spanish language support via the computer had significantly higher scores in the area of reading comprehension.
Keywords
  • literacy,
  • English language learners,
  • computer based instruction,
  • ELL,
  • reading
Publication Date
2012
DOI
10.1080/07380569.2012.702718
Citation Information
Cathi Draper Rodríguez, John Filler and Kyle Higgins. "Using Primary Language Support via Computer to Improve Reading Comprehension Skills of First-Grade English Language Learners" Computers in the Schools Vol. 29 Iss. 3 (2012) p. 253 - 267
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/cathi-draperrodriguez/13/