WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The first research ever conducted to study the use of interactive whiteboard technology in preschools shows that the SMART Board™ solution developed by HATCH® – the TeachSmart® Learning System – can be used successfully with preschool children to significantly impact student gains in core early literacy and math skills.
Results
The study, Relationship of the TeachSmart® Learning System with Literacy and Mathematics Outcomes for Preschoolers, demonstrates that children made significant gains from fall to spring in early literacy, print knowledge, phonological awareness, emergent writing and mathematics skills. At the beginning of the study, only 46% of the children were ready to learn to read in kindergarten. Six months later, 82% exhibited literacy skills required for reading readiness. Only 72% of children scored high enough during initial mathematics tests to be considered ready for math in school. At the end of the study, that number had increased to 92%.
Significance
Many schools have integrated SMART Boards™ in preschool classrooms, sparking a debate over whether interactive whiteboard technology can accelerate student achievement in early childhood. These groundbreaking results prove that education technology innovations that personalize learning, engage students and support teachers can be effectively implemented in preschool classrooms to shape the foundation for success in K-12.
June McCourt, Supervisor of Special Education, CTE and PreK Director for the Trenton, TN Special School District, a participating school, said, “I believe that the children who are familiar with the TeachSmart® Learning System start out ahead of those who have not been exposed to the technology. The progress the students made from pre-test to post-test is amazing. The percentage of students unprepared for kindergarten has dropped.”
Research
“HATCH® incorporates the best and most recent early childhood research when developing educational technology products. We also actively participate in new research.” said Dr. Lilla Dale McManis, Product Development Research Specialist.
A panel of experts in early childhood research, special education, child development and developmental psychology conducted the study. External assessors administered all testing and an independent statistician conducted data analysis.
Download the Study
Visit http://www.hatchearlychildhood.com/efficacystudy to download the full study. For more information please call 1-800-624-7968.
About TeachSmart® Learning System
The TeachSmart® Learning System (http://www.hatchearlychildhood.com/teachsmartlearningsystem) contains over 1,100 individualized preschool activities that reflect the latest scientific research for literacy and mathematics concept acquisition in young children. The system identifies the skills students have mastered and where they need more help. Powerful features such as personalized digital portfolios involve parents in the learning process.
About HATCH®
HATCH® (http://www.hatchearlychildhood.com) believes in supporting educators while developing young minds. Founded in 1984, Hatch has become the nation’s leading provider of appropriate technology in early childhood classrooms and markets a full line of developmentally-appropriate early childhood products. Hatch is committed to providing customers with the highest level of service, support and training.