Effectiveness of the Fast ForWord Language Intervention Program
Author Information
Author(s): Gemma K Strong, Carole J Torgerson, David Torgerson, Charles Hulme
Primary Institution: University of York
Hypothesis
Can the Fast ForWord language intervention program effectively improve children's reading and oral language skills?
Conclusion
The analysis shows that Fast ForWord is not effective in treating children's reading or language difficulties.
Supporting Evidence
- Meta-analyses indicated no significant effect of Fast ForWord on reading or language outcomes.
- Previous studies have shown mixed results, but overall evidence does not support Fast ForWord's effectiveness.
- Many claims about Fast ForWord's benefits are based on non-peer-reviewed studies.
Takeaway
Fast ForWord is a computer program meant to help kids with language problems, but it doesn't actually work.
Methodology
A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing Fast ForWord intervention groups to control groups.
Potential Biases
Potential publication bias due to only including peer-reviewed studies.
Limitations
The studies included varied in quality, and some had high attrition rates.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 6 to 12 years with language impairments.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI −.09 to .25
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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