Building Strong Readers: The Role of Evidence-Based Reading Instruction

Millions of children in the United States struggle with reading, a foundational skill that impacts every aspect of their education and future success. Despite decades of science-based research on how children learn to read, many schools continue to ignore these findings. Instead, they invest in teacher training and curriculum materials rooted in outdated and disproven theories rather than focusing on evidence-based reading instruction.

The consequences of this are profound, as Emily Hanford exposes in her podcast, Sold A Story. In it, Hanford investigates four authors and a publishing company that have profited immensely by promoting reading programs that ultimately failed countless students.

The misguided approach to reading instruction

For years, public schools have endorsed reading programs that are not grounded in solid evidence, depriving students—especially those with learning differences—of the opportunity to develop essential literacy skills.

Long before these programs were widely adopted, substantial evidence already existed that approaches like whole language and inference were ineffective (compared to evidence-based reading instruction) in teaching children how to decode words.

Despite this, these methods were widely accepted. Also, when progress was noted, it was often due to parents seeking private tutors who employed tried and proven phonics-based instruction. As the saying goes, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."

The real question is, how did these flawed methods gain such widespread acceptance? The answer may lie in a lack of critical questioning and a failure to scrutinize the so-called outcome studies used to justify these programs. The level of deceit and fraud perpetuated by these so-called reading experts is staggering, and the lack of accountability is even more alarming.

Becoming a sophisticated consumer of educational practices

Unfortunately, the burden often falls on parents and educators to become sophisticated consumers of educational practices. This requires knowing what questions to ask and having the ability to discern whether a program truly delivers on its promises. If you don’t know what questions to ask, finding someone who does is essential. The learning curve is steep, and while we educate ourselves, students who need our help the most suffer all the more.

The only methods that should be implemented in our schools are "evidence-based." Specifically, methods that have undergone rigorous, long-term outcome studies. Even if a school claims to use evidence-based reading instruction programs, due diligence is still necessary. It’s important to ensure that the educators and professionals implementing these programs are properly trained and equipped to deliver the instruction effectively.

The broader implications: evidence-based practices in all areas

The need for evidence-based practices extends beyond reading instruction. In the realm of mental health, where issues like depression and anxiety are prevalent, evidence-based therapies have shown significant progress. As with reading instruction, matching the therapy and the individual's needs can lead to far better outcomes.

By relying on evidence-based methods, we maximize the likelihood of success and ensure we are not leaving our children’s futures to chance. These practices provide a reliable foundation for growth and development, whether in literacy, mental health, or any other area critical to a child's well-being.

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