| Authors: |
McMaster KL, Kendeou P, Kim J, Butterfuss R |
|
| Title: |
Efficacy of a Technology-Based Early Language Comprehension Intervention: A Randomized Control Trial |
| Source: |
Journal of Learning Disabilities 2024 57(3): 139-152 |
| Year: |
2024 |
| Research Design: |
Randomised Controlled Trial |
| Rating Score: |
05/10 This rating is confirmed Eligibility specified - Yes Random allocation - Yes Concealed allocation - No Baseline comparability - Yes Blind subjects - No Blind therapists - No Blind assessors - No Adequate follow-up - Yes Intention-to-treat analysis - No Between-group comparisons - Yes Point estimates and variability - Yes |
| Abstract: |
We examined the efficacy of a Technology-Based Early Language Comprehension Intervention (TeLCI) designed to teach inferencing in a non-reading context. A group of Grades 1 and 2 students from 2 elementary schools in the U.S. Midwest identified as at risk of comprehension difficulties were assigned randomly to a business-as-usual control group or to use TeLCI over an 8-week period. TeLCI comprised three learning modules per week that involved (a) learning new vocabulary, (b) watching fiction or nonfiction videos, and (c) answering inferential questions. Students also engaged in small-group read-alouds with their teachers once per week. Students who experienced TeLCI improved their inferencing and benefited from scaffolding and feedback provided during the intervention. Students' pre- to posttest inferencing gains were comparable with those of control students. Female students and those receiving special education services appeared less likely to benefit from TeLCI, whereas multilingual students were more likely to respond. Further work is needed to determine the optimal conditions under which TeLCI will benefit young children. |
| Access: |
Paywall |