Graduation Year
2007
Document Type
Thesis
Degree
M.A.
Degree Granting Department
Applied Behavior Analysis
Major Professor
Kelly A. Powell-Smith, Ph.D.
Keywords
Computer assisted language intervention, Academic achievement, Reading intervention, Computer assisted instruction, Positive reinforcement, Rewards
Abstract
A computer-assisted language intervention program called Fast ForWord(R) (Scientific Learning Corporation, 1998) has received a great deal of attention over the past few years. The Scientific Learning Corporation claims that the use of Fast ForWord will improve students' language, reading and learning skills, leading to improved communication skills and increased self-esteem in and out of the classroom. Researchers have explored the effects of Fast ForWord training on reading and spoken language. However, little research has examined the effects on student's reading level and FFW scores when a reinforcement system is used in conjunction with FFW. This study was conducted in an effort to evaluate the effectiveness of a reinforcement system on increasing daily scores of students participating in the Fast ForWord Language Computer Program. An ABABAB reversal design was used to examine the effects of a reinforcement systems with six participants participating in the Fast Forword Language Program. Across the skills examined with the six participants, the results did not clearly demonstrate an effect for the reinforcement system. Implications for future research are discussed.
Scholar Commons Citation
Wilcox, Catherine C., "Evaluating the effects of a reinforcement system for students participating in the Fast Forword language program" (2007). USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/etd/2409
