Using innovative technology to foster reading development among young children with severe cognitive impairments

Abstract

Using an innovative technology-enhanced program in my classroom, K-1 students with severe cognitive impairments made notable gains in foundational early literacy skills, demonstrated enhanced motivation and independence in learning, and engaged in fewer negative behaviors. In the first year of my using the program, students gained 45% in uppercase letter name knowledge, gained 52% in lowercase letter name knowledge, and doubled their letter sound knowledge. These trends were repeated as I used the program for a second year among a different cohort of students. I found this program to provide the consistent repetition and skill practice my students need while making learning fun and rewarding.