Research Projects

Research projects fall under three major research streams.

Preparing Effective Literacy Educators

This research stream focuses on preparing effective literacy educators by strengthening teachers’ knowledge about reading, their instructional decision-making, and professional learning. It identifies key gaps in pre-service teachers’ understanding of language and reading development while advancing innovative approaches to teacher education, including the use of visual models of reading, eye-tracking methods, and online learning environments. Across studies, the work also emphasizes the role of self-directed learning, metacognition, and teacher self-efficacy.

Research stream illustration

Enhancing Early Literacy Development

This research stream focuses on enhancing early literacy development by examining how instructional approaches, learning environments, and targeted interventions support children’s reading and language growth. It includes studies on the impact of summer reading programs in mitigating learning loss and improving reading outcomes, as well as broader reviews of early literacy practices in diverse contexts such as Montessori and Reggio Emilia classrooms. Across this research stream, there is a consistent emphasis on equitable access to rich literacy experiences, the importance of early intervention, and the role of informed, responsive teaching in fostering strong foundational literacy skills.

Improving Reading Outcomes

This research stream focuses on improving reading outcomes by identifying and evaluating instructional practices and interventions that meaningfully enhance students’ literacy development. It includes longitudinal and experimental studies examining the effects of targeted supports, such as summer reading programs. Projects also draw on insights from cognitive and metacognitive theory to better understand how learners engage with reading and monitor their progress. Across studies, this research emphasizes evidence-based decision-making, the use of data to inform instruction, and the development of responsive approaches that support diverse learners in achieving strong and sustained reading success.