Keyboarding, Reading, Spelling (KRS)
PROJECT
KRS is a program to teach students to use a microcomputer keyboard
in the process of learning to type, read, and spell. Mastery is built into
the program.
AUDIENCE
Approved by JDRP and PEP, U.S. Department of Education, for students
grade one through grade six. Supporting data also were gathered from students
in grades 7-8.
DESCRIPTION
Keyboarding, Reading, Spelling is an instructional program that enhances
reading achievement and keyboard skills. The program uses a phonetic approach
to reading, with the microcomputer being an essential component of the
instructional process. The computer does not replace the teacher in instructing,
but rather provides opportunities for students to master skills through
reinforced practice. The software runs on the Apple, Macintosh, and IBM
PC-compatible computers and requires a single disk or CD-ROM drive and
DOS 3.3 or higher (on IBM PC's); a color monitor is preferred, but not
required. It can be networked.
The program works whether one or more computers are available to a
class or whether there is a computer lab in the school. Although the teacher
teaches some skills, students are independent as they work at the computer.
KRS will help ensure students' competency in reading, writing, and
communicating and their adaptation to new technologies (National Goals
3 and 5).
EVIDENCE OF EFFECTIVENESS
Students in grade 1, using the typewriter version of the program, demonstrate
reading achievement scores, as measured by the CAT, that are higher than
scores of students in a true control group, at a statistically significant
level (p<.01).
Students in grade 3, using the microcomputer version of the program,
demonstrate reading comprehension and speed-and-accuracy scores, as measured
by the Gates-MacGinitie Reading Tests, that are higher than scores of students
in a non-equivalent control group, at a statistically significant level
(p<.01). Typewriting and computer usage skills are also statistically
significant for the experimental group when compared to the control group.
Visual and auditory memory skills improve significantly.
Students in grades 1 through 6 using the KRS program demonstrate reading
vocabulary, comprehension, and language skills scores, as measured by the
Metropolitan Achievement Test, significantly higher (p<.01) than
scores of control students who also spent an equal amount of time in the
computer lab in other computer keyboarding programs. Computer usage and
typing skills are also statistically significant for the experimental group
when compared to the control group.
REQUIREMENTS
A one-day preparatory in-service education program conducted by a Reid
Foundation staff person is desirable. The program includes lecture and
practice sessions. It would be advantageous to the trainees to have Apple,
Macintosh, or IBM PC-compatible computers available. It is desired that
data from pre- and posttests are sent to the Developer-Demonstrator.
COSTS
DOS/Win CD-ROM $49.95. Includes instructor's manual.
DOS/Win 5-CD's $195, inscludes instrutor's manual.
Apple, Mac, or PC diskette complete set $99.99.
Diskette set plus backup disk $149.95. Lab Pack of 5-disk sets
plus teachers guide $299.95.
KRS School Network System: disk set 49.95 + 30.00 per computer on network
includes instructor's manual. (CD available for Mac users with Stuffit
Expander 5.5)
Click here for order
information.
SERVICES
Awareness materials are available at no cost. Visitors are welcome
by appointment at project site and additional sites in other states. Project
staff is available to attend out-of-state awareness meetings at no cost.
Training can be done at project site or at adopter sites. Awareness videotape
is available for rental. Training and awareness can take place the same
day.
CONTACT
Dr. Ethna R. Reid, Reid Foundation, 3310 South 2700 East, Salt Lake
City, Utah 84109. (801) 486-5083 or (801) 278-2334. FAX: (801) 485-0561.
Email: ereid@xmission.com
Developmental Funding: Local
JDRP No. 84-14 (3/26/84)
Recertified (10/30/97)
We have also developed two other programs validated by the National
Diffusion Network, U.S. Department of Education.
They are:
We also direct a private school, Reid
School, where these programs are featured.
KRS is a member of the NationalReadingCenter.com.