AIM Institute for Learning & Research's 2024 Research to Practice Symposium was an enlightening meeting of experts in the field of literacy and reading science. Moderated by Dr. Katie Pace Miles, the symposium brought together leading researchers and educators to explore the critical intersection of reading and writing.
As we reflect on the insights shared last year, we also eagerly anticipate the 2025 Research to Practice Symposium, scheduled for Monday, March 10, 2025. This upcoming FREE event will focus on "Implementation Science and Systems Change for Literacy Improvement," and will be moderated by Dr. Tiffany Hogan, Director of the Speech and Language (SAiL) Literacy Lab at MGH Institute.
Dr. Katie Pace Miles: The Intersection of Reading and Writing
Dr. Katie Pace Miles, an associate professor at Brooklyn College, CUNY, set the tone for the 2024 Symposium with her presentation on the symbiotic relationship between reading and writing. Dr. Miles' research underscores the need for reading interventions that are both developmentally appropriate and grounded in the Science of Reading. As the academic advisor for Reading Go! and co-founder of the CUNY Reading Corps, Dr. Miles has been instrumental in advancing literacy education, particularly for underserved communities.
Dr. Sonia Cabell: Writing into Literacy: Leveraging Writing in the Early Years to Promote Reading
Dr. Sonia Cabell, an associate professor of reading education at Florida State University, presented on leveraging writing in the early years to promote reading. Her research focuses on early literacy instruction and the prevention of reading difficulties. Dr. Cabell illustrated how engaging young children in writing activities can lay a strong foundation for later reading abilities. Her presentation provided practical strategies for scaffolding students' writing attempts within preschool and kindergarten settings, reinforcing the reading-writing connection.
Dr. Claude Goldenberg: Considerations for English Learners and Emergent Bilingual Students
Building on the previous presentations, Dr. Claude Goldenberg from Stanford University discussed additional instructional and curriculum features necessary to support English Learners and emergent bilingual students. Dr. Goldenberg’s research on promoting academic achievement among English Learners emphasizes the importance of tailored literacy instruction to meet the diverse needs of these learners.
Nancy Hennessy: The Comprehension-Composition Connection
Nancy Hennessy, a renowned literacy consultant and author, delved into the reciprocal relationship between comprehension and composition. Highlighting evidence-based instructional frameworks, Hennessy emphasized how understanding this connection can significantly enhance student learning. Her work, including "The Reading Comprehension Blueprint," serves as a vital resource for educators aiming to implement structured literacy practices.
Dr. Devin Kearns: From Letters to Sounds and Back Again: Reading and Writing Long Words
Dr. Devin Kearns, an associate professor at the University of Connecticut, focused on strategies for reading and writing polysyllabic words. His research integrates cognitive science and neuroscience to develop instructional programs that support students with reading difficulties. Dr. Kearns presented data-based strategies that help students decode and understand long words, improving their overall reading achievement.
Dr. Kenneth Pugh: 25 Years In Search of the Literate Brain
The symposium concluded with Dr. Kenneth Pugh, recipient of the Hollis Scarborough Award, reflecting on his 25-year journey researching the literate brain. Dr. Pugh, a researcher at Haskins Laboratories, shared insights into the neurobiological foundation of language and reading development. His work bridges cognitive neuroscience and psycholinguistics, offering a profound understanding of both typical and atypical reading development.
#AIMSymposium2025
The 2024 Research to Practice Symposium was a testament to AIM Institute's commitment to advancing the connection between reading and writing. We look forward to continuing this tradition at AIM's 13th Annual Research to Practice Symposium on March 10, 2025. Join us for this FREE event as we delve into "Implementation Science and Systems Change for Literacy Improvement," and continue our shared journey towards enhancing literacy education for all.
Did you know that all of AIM's professional learning opportunities are open for individual enrollment? If you are interested in group training for 20 or more educators in your school, district, or state, be sure to reach out and start a conversation today to develop a training schedule that meets your organization's needs.
About AIM Institute: The AIM Institute for Learning & Research® is a non-profit center for educational excellence and professional development, providing educators with the latest research, technology, and evidence-based practices in the fields of literacy and language-based learning disabilities.