It’s still summer, but many children and teachers are back in school or preparing to return to the classroom. About a year ago, we sat down with Rebecca Silverman, a professor of education, to discuss the complex process of learning how to read. Professor Silverman unpacks the challenges of decoding and comprehension, two things that are vital for reading instruction to be successful. Whether you’re supporting a new reader or curious about the hurdles new readers must overcome, we hope you’ll tune in to this conversation again.
Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.
Episode Reference Links:
- Stanford Profile: Rebecca D. Silverman
Connect With Us:
- Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website
- Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Russ Altman introduces Rebecca Silverman, a professor of education at Stanford University.
(00:01:59) Why Reading Is Hard
Why reading is a complex, non-natural skill essential for education.
(00:03:14) Decoding & Comprehension
The core components of reading and the challenges of comprehension.
(00:05:07) Improving Comprehension
Why improving comprehension takes years and sustained support.
(00:06:40) Variability in Learning
Why some kids excel, others need help, and many struggle.
(00:08:26) Nature vs. Nurture
How genetics and environment combine to shape reading ability.
(00:09:17) Reading Across Languages
How different writing systems affect how quickly kids learn to read.
(00:10:57) Identifying Struggling Readers
Research challenges in identifying decoding and comprehension issues.
(00:14:42) Paper vs. Digital Reading
Key differences between reading on paper and screens.
(00:18:04) Technology in Literacy
How technology is effective for decoding but less so for comprehension.
(00:19:58) Family Influence
The importance of family and storytelling in literacy development.
(00:21:52) Adult Literacy
Whether adults can learn to read as easily as young learners.
(00:23:13) Challenges For Teachers
The challenges teachers face in teaching literacy alongside multiple subjects
(00:25:15) The Future of AI in Reading
The potential of AI and digital tools to help tailor literacy support.
(00:28:50) Conclusion
Connect With Us:
Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website
Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon
Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook
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