Using Large-Scale Research to Gauge the Impact of Instructional Practices on Student Reading Comprehension: An Exploratory Study

Authors

  • Harold Wenglinsky Baruch College

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.v11n19.2003

Keywords:

Reading Comprehension, Large Scale Assessment

Abstract

Small-scale research has identified classroom practices that are associated with high student performance in reading comprehension. It is not known, however, whether these findings generalize to larger samples and populations, as most large-scale studies of the impact of teaching on student performance do not include measures of classroom practices. Generalizing to larger populations is particulary important at a time when policies national in their scope are calling for “scientifically-based” instruction in reading. The current study explores the possibility of using large-scale data and methods to study classroom practices in reading comprehension. It finds that such studies are both feasible and necessary. They are feasible insofar as it proved possible to collect and analyze data on classroom practices and student reading comprehension, and discern substantial effects of the one on the other. They are necessary insofar as the study confirmed the effectiveness of some classroom practices but not others. It therefore cannot be assumed that the findings of small-scale studies generalize to large populations.

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Author Biography

Harold Wenglinsky, Baruch College

Harold Wenglinsky is Associate Professor in the Baruch School of Public Affairs and Research Director of the Center for Educational Leadership. His research interests include the impact of teachers’ instructional practices on student learning and maximizing the effectiveness of educational technology, about which he is currently completing a book.

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Published

2003-06-30

How to Cite

Wenglinsky, H. (2003). Using Large-Scale Research to Gauge the Impact of Instructional Practices on Student Reading Comprehension: An Exploratory Study. Education Policy Analysis Archives, 11, 19. https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.v11n19.2003

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Section

Articles