Investigating a One-on-One Tutoring Program's Impact on Struggling Readers' Attitudes About Reading and School

• In Event: 75.061 - Roundtable Session 34
  In Roundtable Session: 75.061-4 - Evaluating Programs Designed to Enhance College and Career Readiness

Abstract

National statistics indicate that minority students are underperforming in reading and research shows one-on-one tutoring has a positive impact on reading. Thus, the purpose of this evaluation was to examine: (a) whether students improved their reading motivation and attitudes toward school, (b) teacher and volunteer perceptions of the program, and (c) student and volunteer classroom behaviors during the program. The program was implemented at five elementary schools where volunteers worked with approximately 150 struggling readers. Results indicate students who participated in one-on-one tutoring program had positive attitudes about reading and school. Although teachers and volunteers perceived that students reading motivation improved, there were no changes on students’ reading motivation over time. Students’ engagement in school did significantly improve over time.

Authors

• Susana E Franco-Fuenmayor, University of Saint Thomas

• Kayla Braziel Rollins, Texas A&M University

• Yoheily Cristina Widdison, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Elba Barahona, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Yolanda N. Padron, Texas A&M University

• Hersh C. Waxman, Texas A&M University