Comments on: Costs and benefits of commercially produced literacy programs

By: Jeanne Wherrett

Jeanne Wherrett — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:55 +0000

I am a little confused about a program claiming to be “research-based”. Does it mean that they are claiming that the program is based on sound literacy teaching principles that have been well researched and validated? Or does it mean that the program itself has been thoroughly evaluated in a rigorous manner? These are quite different claims. My initial interpretation was that it would mean “based on (previous) research”. I had never stopped to think that the term “research-based” could be ambiguous. Perhaps those producing the programs need to be express it differently to make the intended meaning clear.

By: Ellen Larsen

Ellen Larsen — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:48:46 +0000

The teaching of literacy is a skill that cannot be purchased in a box or on a CD/DVD. Commercially produced programs cannot replace responsive and informed teaching. These programs are resources that can be interesting and compliment our teaching. For this we must be very selective and understand that any one program cannot drive an entire classroom/ school literacy program. Thanks Angela for providing these forums for teachers to share.

By: Lynda De Marchi

Lynda De Marchi — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 09:51:19 +0000

I have often had this discussion with teachers and although there are some really effective ready made products available it is necessary to balance the use of these products with your own knowledge of the students in your class. Often you, as the teacher can develop more effective programs yourself. Teachers need to believe in their own ability and knowledge and have faith that their programs meet the individual needs of their students. Thank you for such an insightful view into this subject.

By: Dianne Moss

Dianne Moss — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 09:35:42 +0000

A few teachers and I were just discussing this concept today and certainly agree with your comments. It is too easy to use ready made products because they save time. If teachers really have their students in mind when they are planning, they would soon realise they can make similar items to suit the purpose of the task - aiming at the needs of the students within their class. The use of literature as a base can lead to some excellent work. Teachers do need to build confidence in their own ability. Thank you for your timely and well stated comments. I will share these at the Year Level Meeting this week.

By: Jill Innes

Jill Innes — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 04:58:19 +0000

I fully support your comments Angela. Teachers are such busy people that it is easy for them to rely on pre-produced resources at times. I think, also, that many times teachers think that because it’s commercially produced it must be better than what they could design. That is just not true in my experience. We are moving very strongly away from the use of commercial packages and using our literacy resources to develop banks of books that can be used for relevant levels, interests and for differentiation within the classroom. Thanks for your balanced insights.