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A multi-sensory tutoring program for students at risk of reading difficulties: Evidence from a randomized field experiment

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  • Martin Bøg
  • Jens Dietrichson
  • Anna A. Isaksson

Abstract

This study examined a literacy program that targeted students most at risk of reading difficulties in kindergarten and first grade of 12 Swedish schools. The program used multi-sensory learning methods that focused on phonological awareness and phonics, and was delivered during 10 weeks over 30–35 sessions by teachers in a one-to-one or one-to-two setting. In total, 161 students aged 6–7 years were randomly assigned to a treatment group or a waiting list control group. The treatment group showed large and statistically significant improvements compared to the control group on the two pre-registered primary outcome measures: a standardized test of decoding (Hedges’ g = 1.07) and a standardized test of letter knowledge (g = 1.03). The improvements were also significantly larger on measures of phonological awareness (g = 0.56) and self-efficacy (g = 0.57), but not on measures of enjoyment and motivation. The program appears cost-effective relative to other tutoring programs.

Suggested Citation

  • Martin Bøg & Jens Dietrichson & Anna A. Isaksson, 2021. "A multi-sensory tutoring program for students at risk of reading difficulties: Evidence from a randomized field experiment," The Journal of Educational Research, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 114(3), pages 233-251, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:vjerxx:v:114:y:2021:i:3:p:233-251
    DOI: 10.1080/00220671.2021.1902254
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    1. Andre Nickow & Philip Oreopoulos & Vincent Quan, 2020. "The Impressive Effects of Tutoring on PreK-12 Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Experimental Evidence," NBER Working Papers 27476, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • I00 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - General - - - General
    • I20 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - General
    • I24 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Education and Inequality
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • Z18 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - Public Policy

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