The Science of Reading

Emily Hanford's podcast, "Sold a Story," has gained widespread recognition for its engaging and informative exploration of the science of reading. By emphasising evidence-based approaches to reading instruction, the podcast is particularly valuable for educators seeking to enhance their teaching methods and parents with children who are struggling to read.

The science of reading has provided educators with essential knowledge regarding evidence-based approaches that have been demonstrated to support learning. A focus on measurable outcomes allows for targeted instruction that responds to the specific needs of individual learners.

The upcoming International Conference of the Standard Celeration Society in Galway on June 9th and 10th, 2023, will provide Irish educators with an opportunity to hear from leading researchers in the science of reading. The conference will serve as a forum for experts to share their latest findings and discuss strategies for improving reading and other important outcomes for learners.

The conference will hear from, Irish researchers such as Dr. Claire Griffin, Educational Psychologist and lecturer at Mary Immaculate College and Dr. Claire McDowell, Lecturer in Applied Behaviour Analysis, Ulster University.  Both Dr. Griffin and Dr. McDowell have published studies on the use of Precision Teaching. Precision Teaching is a technique used in the science of reading that involves careful tracking of student progress and the use of data to inform instruction. By utilising Precision Teaching, educators can tailor instruction to meet the specific needs of individual learners and achieve measurable improvements in outcomes.

Dr. Griffin's most recent paper published in Irish Educational Studies in 2021 critically examines the applicability of evidence-based approaches in Irish mainstream primary schools when supporting both reading and maths. Dr. McDowell will provide a history of precision teaching in Ireland.

The National Educational Psychological Service in its 2019 good practice guide for teachers entitled ‘Effective interventions for struggling readers’ lists Precision Teaching as an evidence-based intervention. The conference will provide a valuable opportunity for Irish educators, psychologists, and parents to identify the fundamental features of the science of reading. By embracing evidence-based approaches to instruction, we can help ensure that all learners have the tools they need to succeed.  Delegates will develop their ability to recognise evidence-based reading strategies and distinguish between reading strategies that have measurable outcomes and those that do not. 

Registration is open until April 30th, don't miss this opportunity to learn from leading researchers in the science of reading. Book your place at the conference here.