FastForward

Description: Fast ForWord is a CD-ROM and Internet based program that takes a unique, brain based approach to preparing students for reading by developing oral comprehension skills and other skills that are required for successful reading.

Developed by neurological scientists from University of California San Francisco and Rutgers University, the program is a series of seven exercises that train students to understand, process and use language more effectively. The exercises are specifically targeted towards developing discrimination skills that have been identified through neurological research as being strongly related to success in early reading. These skills include phonemic awareness, auditory processing speed, phonological awareness, working memory, syntax, grammar, sequencing and other necessary reading skills.

The program is expensive and intensive. The cost for 50 students can be approximately $38,000. This includes the software, training and daily assessment of students' progress and assignment of new work via the Internet.

© Scientific Learning, Inc.

Developer/Publisher:
SUniversity of California - San Francisco and Rutgers University
Scientific Learning

Grade Levels: Designed for children of ages 4-12. There may be benefits to older students as well. Concepts have been applied to adult learners.

Cost: for 50 students--$38,000

Effectiveness:

For additional information see the Education Commission of the States summary at http://www.ecs.org/clearinghouse/18/84/1884.htm

In 1994 and 1995, scientists from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Rutgers University conducted initial controlled studies to measure the effectiveness of Fast ForWord. Their results were published in the January 1996 issue of the journal Science, demonstrated rapidly improved language skills. On tests of early reading and language skills, Fast ForWord students started at the 12th percentile and ended at the 49th percentile.
After the UCSF and Rutgers clinical studies were completed, Scientific Learning conducted the National Field Trial in 1996 with a much larger sample.The results from the National Field Trial confirmed the results of the joint UCSF-Rutgers studies.

In addition to the National Field Trial, Scientific Learning conducted a separate study in the fall of 1997. This study included more than 400 students in 19 public schools and used a randomized control group. Data from that study also confirmed the earlier conclusions reported in Science and in the National Field Trial results.

"...results were published in the January 1996 issue of the journal Science, demonstrated rapidly improved language skills."

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