The Use of Computer-Assisted Instruction to Improve the Reading Comprehension of Students With Learning Disabilities: An Evaluation of the Evidence Base According to the What Works Clearinghouse Standards

The purpose of this study was to investigate the evidence base for using computer-assisted instruction (CAI) to improve the reading comprehension of students with learning disabilities (LD). Twelve peer-reviewed studies (seven comparison group studies, five single-case studies) met selection criteria and were evaluated according to the relevant What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) procedures and standards. Results showed that seven studies (five comparison group and two single-case studies) met WWC standards with or without reservations. Key instructional features employed in CAI studies meeting the WWC standards without reservations included practice opportunities, self-correction and immediate corrective feedback, teacher-directed instruction, and contingencies for enhancing student motivation and engagement. Implications for future research and suggestions for using quality indicators to improve the rigor of future CAI investigations are discussed