Knezek, G., & Christensen, R. (2007, September). Effect of Technology-Based Programs on First- and Second-Grade Reading Achievement. Computers in the

The author's Knezek & Christensen (2007), gave the example of several Texas school districts use of professional development and technology to influence student performance. The study consisted of several randomly selected schools that fit the description of being in a rural environment, and having 45% or more free or reduced lunches. Their was at least one member of every school was presented with a 5 day hands-on workshop that consisted of electronically deemed literate teachers helping illiterate teachers learn technological processes. Some of the topics that were considered were: electronic portfolios, AR, and a set of Early Reading Center software. After the training was concluded those teachers were sent back to their school as the Early Reading liasons. The students were then tested with the Texas Informal Reading Inventory, and then the classes were then averaged by reading levels. The article then conducted a 6 month trial and concluded that all of the scores had risen. The article lacks to explain in detail more about the programs other then their names. The article also does not include any other helpful information aside from the fact that technology boosts achievement levels. I would hope in the future the authors would provide a more indepth review of teaching practices to better inform aspiring and veteran teaching professionals.