Balancing Technology and Phonics in Reading Instruction
Tech in reading and in the classroom has changed how we teach and learn to read. Technology has provided new tools to get students excited about learning. For kids who struggle with reading or have dyslexia, tech can be a game-changer, opening up doors that they might have thought were closed. But even with advancements, it’s important to remember that good reading instruction still starts with the basics: phonics and structured literacy.
The Role of Tech in Supporting Readers
Traditional teaching methods aren’t always enough for many students who struggle with reading fluency, comprehension, or decoding. That’s where tools like Noah Text, Learning Ally, and Voice Dream Reader come into play. These technologies are created to offer features such as text highlighting, auditory support, and scaffolding that can make reading more accessible and engaging for those who need extra support.
- Noah Text is a text-to-speech software designed to assist individuals with reading difficulties, such as those with dyslexia or other learning challenges. It helps users by reading aloud digital text, which can make reading more accessible.
- Learning Ally provides a comprehensive library of audiobooks and other resources to support students with learning disabilities, such as dyslexia. The Learning Ally platform offers access to human-narrated audiobooks, which can be paired with text highlighting and other features to improve accessibility.
- Voice Dream Reader is a mobile app that provides customizable text-to-speech playback, catering to individual preferences and needs. Its design assists individuals with reading difficulties, such as those with dyslexia or anyone who prefers auditory learning.
These tools can help struggling students build their confidence and reading endurance, giving them a way to access and understand texts they might normally find too difficult.
Why the Basics in Reading Still Matter
While technology can be a reliable aid in learning to read, it should not be the primary resource for reading instruction. Phonics-based instruction has repeatedly been proven to be the preferred approach to building strong reading skills. The phonetic approach teaches students how letters and sounds work together so they can figure out words they don’t know and improve their reading. For many students struggling with reading, this step is the key to improving reading skills.
Tutors who understand structured literacy can adapt their teaching style to fit each student. This helps kids learn the basics of reading and become confident readers. They start easy and slowly build to more complex texts, which builds reading confidence and sets kids up for success in the long run!
Combining Tech in Reading with Phonics for Maximum Impact
A personalized tutoring program can combine individualized reading instruction supplemented with the latest supportive technology. Here’s how to create an effective blend:
- Teachers and tutors can use phonics in lessons, and students and parents can use tools like Noah Text or Learning Ally at home for extra support
- Parents can encourage their children to read more by using regular books and tech that helps with understanding, such as apps with decodable text or interactive reading exercises.
- Librarians and tutors can provide resources for different learning needs, ensuring students have access to phonics programs and tech in reading tools.
This balanced approach helps students build core skills while enjoying the helpful benefits of technology.
Why Balance Matters
Whether it’s tutoring or school, we want students to be confident and independent readers. Tech in reading can help close some gaps, but leaning on it too much stops students from getting the skills they need to succeed. For lasting results, we need a balanced approach that stresses phonics and structured literacy while supplementing skills and enjoying the flexibility and engaging features of technology.
Supporting Your Child’s Reading Journey
At Oxford Learning, we know every student can become a great reader. Our reading programs help students build a strong foundation in basic reading skills using a phonetic approach.
Whether your child struggles with dyslexia, fluency, or understanding what they read, our tutors are here to help them build the skills they need to succeed—not just in reading but in life! Focusing on the basics and using personalized solutions creates a space where all readers can thrive.
Start today and see how our personalized approach to reading can help your child.
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