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Fast ForWord Software Agreement Established in British Columbia

Scientific Learning [1]British ColumbiaScientific Learning Corp. [2] has announced an agreement with Educational Resource Acquisition Consortium [3] (ERAC) to provide the British Columbia consortium’s members with access to discounts for the Fast ForWord® family of products.

Developed by California-based Scientific Learning Corp., the Fast ForWord software provides struggling readers with computer-delivered exercises that build the cognitive skills required to read and learn effectively. Based on more than 30 years of ERAC [3]neuroscience and cognitive research, Fast ForWord software has been used with great success in several BC districts including Surrey, Burnaby and Victoria.

At a recent conference in BC, special education administrators who have been using Fast ForWord shared their implementation strategies and student results. Administrators reported that some students are making improvements by as much as two grade levels, while many other students are more focused and attentive in class.

“The use of Fast ForWord products in our province is growing rapidly and for good reason. Students are making gains in their literacy development,” said Deborah Simak, president of the British Columbia Council of Administrators of Special Education. “This is the first time that I have been part of a group of educators who are excited by the possibility of a software product that really delivers results for students. I am happy to be involved in a project that has teachers and schools wanting to be involved, and that has children excited about their progress.”

There is no question that Fast ForWord software helps students overcome reading difficulties, achieve grade level goals, and improve academic performance overall, according to Dr. William Jenkins, co-founder and chief technology officer at Scientific Learning. “Scientific Learning has compiled one of the largest databases of measured user results in education today, including skills tested with a variety of student populations from across the United States and abroad. We are extremely pleased with the results achieved thus far in many BC schools,” said Jenkins.

BC schools interested in acquiring the Fast ForWord family of products can find more information in the ERAC PDF Brochure [4].