Future advances in the early detection of reading risk: Subgroups, dynamic relations, and advanced methodologies: Epilogue to Journal of Learning Disabilities Special Edition “Advances in the Early Detection of Reading Risk”

Authors

Tiffany Hogan, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Jennifer M. Thomson, Harvard Graduate School of EducationFollow

Date of this Version

2009

Comments

Forthcoming in Journal of Learning Disabilities. Copyright © 2009 Tiffany P. Hogan and Jennifer M. Thomson.

Abstract

Six studies and 1 synthesis focused on early identification of reading impairment in this special edition. A familiar theme emerged: reading involves multiple subsystems that dynamically interact across development making early identification a ‘moving target’ (cf Speece, 2005). Based on the cumulative findings presented in this edition, we pose 5 key considerations for future advances in the early detection of reading risk: (a) attention to the definition of ‘reading’ and the heterogeneity of poor readers (b) longitudinal dynamic relations, (c) application of advanced, theory-driven methodology and statistical models, (d) early identification that leads to prescriptive early intervention, (e) early identification in a multi-lingual, multi-cultural population.