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Enhancing Reading Literacy in Elementary Children using Programming for Scientific Simulations
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, , , , Auburn University, United States

International Journal on E-Learning, ISSN 1537-2456 Publisher: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE), Waynesville, NC USA

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Abstract

Reading literacy has been a major problem for American students for the past several years. Educators have struggled to find a solution to this problem that will help students while at the same time maintain their interest in the subject matter. Educational video games and other e-learning technologies have made their way into classrooms and homes all around the world as an innovative solution to children's learning deficiencies. The SimBuilder Science Project came into existence as an outreach program which uses visual programming to assist in enhancing reading literacy. Solving a science challenge was the overall goal for the students in the program, while reading science articles and writing related journal responses allowed the students to unknowingly improve reading comprehension and writing skills. An experiment was conducted and results were compiled based on an ongoing assessment of the students and a final survey. The findings of this study suggest that the Squeak SimBuilder e-learning technology can be successfully used to enhance reading literacy in a group of fourth and fifth grade students.

Citation

Williams, A., Rouse, K., Seals, C. & Gilbert, J. (2009). Enhancing Reading Literacy in Elementary Children using Programming for Scientific Simulations. International Journal on E-Learning, 8(1), 57-69. Waynesville, NC USA: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved June 9, 2023 from .

© 2009 Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE)

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References

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