The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional educational systems, causing significant challenges for students, particularly those with existing school difficulties. A recent study, "Online procedure to encourage reading in children with school difficulties and their guardians, during the COVID-19 pandemic," explores effective strategies to foster reading habits through online platforms and family involvement. This blog delves into the study's outcomes and offers practical insights for practitioners.
Key Findings from the Study
The study involved six children with school difficulties and their mothers, using a digital platform to share readings and conduct synchronous meetings via Google Meet. The primary objectives were to:
- Encourage solid reading habits in children
- Change daily attitudes of mothers towards promoting reading
- Foster encouraging behaviors in mothers when sharing their children’s reading experiences
The results were promising, showing significant behavioral changes in both children and mothers. Key findings include:
- Children developed stronger reading habits
- Mothers adopted more proactive behaviors in encouraging reading
- Increased engagement and interest in reading activities
Implementing the Findings in Practice
Practitioners can leverage these findings to enhance their intervention strategies. Here are some actionable steps:
1. Utilize Digital Platforms
Digital platforms can facilitate reading engagement through interactive and asynchronous activities. Tools like online book clubs, thematic social networks, and literary blogs can be integrated into therapy sessions to make reading more engaging and accessible.
2. Encourage Family Involvement
Family support is crucial in developing reading habits. Encourage parents to:
- Create a reading-friendly environment at home
- Model reading behaviors by sharing their own reading experiences
- Engage in joint reading sessions with their children
3. Promote Self-Selection of Reading Material
Allowing children to choose their reading material can significantly increase their motivation and engagement. Ensure a variety of books are available and encourage children to select topics that interest them.
4. Conduct Regular Check-Ins
Regularly monitor progress and provide feedback. Use tools like reading behavior scales and questionnaires to assess changes in reading habits and attitudes.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study's findings are promising, further research is needed to consolidate these results. Practitioners are encouraged to explore:
- Longitudinal studies to measure the long-term impact of these interventions
- Studies with larger sample sizes to allow for statistical analysis
- Hybrid or face-to-face applications of the procedures
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Online procedure to encourage reading in children with school difficulties and their guardians, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
