PREVENTING EARLY READING FAILURE WITH ONE-TO-ONE TUTORING - A REVIEW OF 5 PROGRAMS

THIS ARTICLE reviews research on one-to-one tutoring models that have been used to improve the reading skills of first graders who are at ri sk for reading failure. Five models were identified. Reading Recovery, Success for All, Prevention of Learning Disabilities, The Wallach Tut oring Program, and Programmed Tutorial Reading. Sixteen studies evalua ting these models found substantial positive effects of tutoring in co mparison to traditional methods. Follow-up studies found that effects of tutoring were generally lasting. Results were more positive when re ading instruction was based on a more comprehensive model of reading a nd when certified teachers (rather than paraprofessionals) were the tu tors. The cost effectiveness of tutoring and the meaning of the findin gs for remedial and special education are discussed.