Research
Research-Driven Innovation in Reading Intervention
At the core of TUNE into READING's development lies a foundation of rigorous, independent research, primarily conducted through the University of South Florida. Our entry into the education market was driven by the compelling initial studies on our music-based products. Since then, ongoing research has been the cornerstone of our product improvement and development.
The Role of Research in Our Products
Understanding the impact of music on learning, particularly reading, has guided our approach. Our collaboration with academic institutions and independent researchers has allowed us to create a product that is innovative and grounded in scientifically validated methods.
Explore Our Research
We are committed to transparency and ongoing learning. Below are links to detailed studies, papers, and profiles of the researchers who have been integral to our journey. These resources offer in-depth insights into the scientific basis behind TUNE into READING and its effectiveness.
TUNE into READING and SINGINGCoach Research
- USF Research Abstract #1 (2005) – Does Singing Improve Reading Skills?
- USF Research Abstract #2 (2006) – Does Singing Improve Reading Skills? Using an Interactive Singing Program with Struggling Readers Grade 4-12: A comparison study of reading progress.
- USF Research Abstract #4 (2009) – Does TUNE into READING Improve FCAT Scores?
- USF Research Abstract #5 (2011) – Continued Evidence of Positive Effects on FCAT Scores for a Non-standard Approach to Reading Intervention.
- Kansas TUNE into READING Research (2012)
- Reading Fluency through alternative text: Reading with an interactive sing-to-read program embedded within middle school music classroom (Marie Biggs) - http://scholarcommons.usf.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi? article=1633&context=etd&sei-redir=1#
National Research and Articles on Music and Learning
- The Importance of Movement in Learning - http://www.songsforteaching.net/music-movement
- Music Education Can Help Children Improve Reading Skills - http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03 /090316075843.htm
- Promoting Literacy Through Music – http://www.songsforteaching.com/lb/literacymusic.htm
- Using Music to Teach Early Reading Skills – http://www.songsforteaching.net/early-reading-skills
- Effect of Popular and Classical Background Music on the Math Test Scores of Undergraduate Students - http://music.arts.usf.edu/rpme/effects.htm
Key Studies and Findings
During the 2013 spring semester, the data below was collected at three Title 1 elementary schools in central Florida. The assessment used was the “FSP” score from the F.A.I.R. test, which is administered by the Florida Department of Education and the Florida Center for Reading Research http://www.fcrr.org. The FSP (FCAT Success Probability) score indicates the probability, expressed as a percent, that the student will get a “passing score” on the FCAT (Florida’s high stakes standardized test).
As is indicated on the charts, the students that used TUNE into READING outperformed their comparison groups by 88% to 355%.
Site #1: Title 1 third graders
- Used TiR 45 minutes/session, 2 sessions/week, for 9 weeks
- After school program
- TiR users improved by 88%
Site #2: Title 1 third graders
- Used TiR 45 minutes/session, 2 sessions/week, for 9 weeks
- After school program
- TiR users made 355% larger gains
Site #3: Title 1 third graders
- Used TiR 30 minutes/session, 3 sessions/week, for 9 weeks
- During the school day
- TiR users made 333% more gains
Impact of Research on Product Evolution
The insights gained from these studies validate TUNE’s effectiveness in READING and fuel our continuous quest for product enhancement. Each research finding translates into product improvements, ensuring we deliver the most effective and user-friendly reading intervention tool.