Project Details
FUNDING AGENCY
Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education, R324A190145 – 21
RESEARCH TEAM MEMBERS
David Houchins (Georgia State University, Principal Investigator)
Deborah Reed (University of Tennessee, co-Principal Investigator)
PURPOSE
This study will examine the effectiveness of a blended curriculum (Read 180®) for improving the literacy outcomes of adolescents in juvenile justice schools who have reading difficulties. LIBERATE also will explore factors that mediate or moderate the impact of literacy instruction.
INTERVENTION
Treatment classes will implement Read 180®, a widely used literacy program for differentiating English language arts (ELA) instruction. The program uses a blended learning approach that includes textbooks, computer software, trade books, and supplementary materials. Students rotate through whole-group, small-group, and independent activities.
TYPICAL INSTRUCTION
Comparison classes will implement the facility’s typical ELA curriculum and instruction.
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
- Students entering long-term commitment facilities will be recruited and randomly assigned to an ELA class implementing Reading 180 or one implementing the facility’s typical curriculum for ELA. Regardless of the class they are assigned, students can earn ELA credit for Grades 6-10 because the program is tied to ELA standards.
- Research team members will gather student data to monitor their literacy improvement and classroom observational data to understand how ELA instruction was implemented in Read 180® as compared to business-as-usual classes.
- Teachers will receive initial and monthly professional development to support their instruction and classroom management.
This project was funded for a 5-year period from July 1, 2019, to June 30, 2024. Current research sites are Youth Development Centers in the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice. Participants include students in Grades 6-10 who are committed to the custody of the DJJ for a long-term secure care, supervision, and treatment services program.
