Rebecca Silverman is an expert in how humans learn to read. It’s a complex process, she says. First we must connect letters and sounds to decode words in texts. Researchers know a lot about the decoding process and how to teach it. But, beyond that, we must also comprehend what the words in texts are conveying. Comprehension is complex, and researchers know much less about the comprehension process and how to teach it, Silverman tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.

Episode Reference Links:

• Rebecca Silverman’s Research Lab: Language to Literacy Lab

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

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction to Reading Challenges 

Host Russ Altman introduces guest Rebecca Sliverman and her research into the complexities of reading.

(00:03:53) Decoding vs. Comprehension 

The breakdown of reading into decoding and comprehension, the challenges associated with each, and the lifelong process of improving these skills.

(00:07:18) Variability in Learning to Read  

How children learn to read, including the impacts of linguistic comprehension, memory and socio-emotional contexts.

(00:09:55) Cross-Cultural Differences in Reading 

The variability of reading acquisition across languages and cultures, highlighting the components of reading that vary in their developmental trajectory.

(00:11:35) Research Challenges and Interventions in Reading 

Current research on the challenges of reading, particularly in identifying and supporting children with difficulties.

(00:15:03) The Role of Technology in Reading 

The impact of technology on reading, the differences between reading on paper and digital formats, and the potential of educational technology in literacy development.

(00:20:38) Importance of Family in Reading Development

How families play a role in early reading, with emphasis on storytelling and culturally relevant practices. 

(00:23:52) Challenges for Teachers in Literacy Education

Responsibilities of teachers in teaching literacy and the need for comprehensive support and training for teachers.

(00:27:44) Future Directions and the Potential of AI 

Future research on AI in literacy education, and the importance of human oversight in technological interventions.

(00:29:29) 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