Computer-Assisted Instruction: Phonics and Phonological Awareness
Phonics instruction should be explicit and systematic. Sound-spelling relationships should be taught directly and instruction should "follow a clearly defined sequence" (Learning A-Z, 2012, n.p.). Unfortunately, research on how to integrate technology with phonics and phonological awareness is very limited. When researching the literature for this project, I was unable to find any studies on specific technology tools to use for integration with these areas of literacy. However, there is recent research on computer-assisted instruction (CAI). CAI is a program that presents instructional material on the computer. CAI is a helpful "supplementary aid to direct reading instruction" (Macaruso & Walker, 2008, p. 268). Students work at their own pace and are given immediate feedback as to whether their responses are correct or incorrect. CAI can supplement phonics and phonological awareness instruction by providing students opportunities to practice skills like sound identification and blending and segmenting words.
Here are some CAI examples, along with links to websites where you can learn more about them or your school can purchase the software.
1. Waterford Early Learning: http://www.waterfordearlylearning.org/
2. Earobics: http://www.earobics.com/
3. DaisyQuest and Daisy's Castle: http://www.smartkidssoftware.com/mdgws1.htm
4. Alphie's Ally (part of the Success for All program): http://www.successforall.org/Elementary/Schoolwide-Support-and-Intervention-Tools/Computer-Assisted-Tutoring-Tools/
Here are some CAI examples, along with links to websites where you can learn more about them or your school can purchase the software.
1. Waterford Early Learning: http://www.waterfordearlylearning.org/
- Digital books, animated songs, and interactive lessons are used to present concepts or to develop reading skills.
- For grades PreK-2
- Phonics and phonological awareness instruction
- Student performance on the beginning test is used to place them in the correct place of the software curriculum.
2. Earobics: http://www.earobics.com/
- Interactive lessons include music and animations to engage students
- Earobics Foundations for grades PreK-1
- Earobics Connections for grades 2-3 and other struggling readers
- Includes instruction in all areas of reading, and also writing
3. DaisyQuest and Daisy's Castle: http://www.smartkidssoftware.com/mdgws1.htm
- Uses a storyline to teach reading skills
- For grades PreK-2
- Phonics and phonological awareness instruction
4. Alphie's Ally (part of the Success for All program): http://www.successforall.org/Elementary/Schoolwide-Support-and-Intervention-Tools/Computer-Assisted-Tutoring-Tools/
- For tier 3 instruction
- A computer-assisted tutoring program (to be used as a one-on-one support for students who receive individual tutoring)