Research Reviews

Reading is a critical skill for students because of the strong correlation between success as a reader and educational attainment, employment and career, and quality of life. DERN has recently reported on two research works about reading, one by the UK National Literacy Trust and a second about reading in higher education. A report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) adds further crucial information for educators about reading online. The OECD undertakes international surveys every three years, with large samples of 15 year old students, to understand the acquisition of knowledge and skills towards the end of schooling. The 2009 surveys focussed on reading, both print reading and online reading, as well as updated information for mathematics and science. This 2009 survey as part of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) adds significantly to insights into reading proficiency.