Research Studies
"Scientifically-Based Research Validating Kurzweil 3000"
Compiled by: Paula Weinberger, M.S., Education Therapist in private practice in the San Francisco Bay Area.
No Child Left Behind (NCLB), signed into law in January 2002, is considered one of the most significant federal
education policy initiatives in a generation. Its purpose is to ensure that every student becomes proficient in
reading and mathematics by 2013-2014. An important aspect of this legislation is to encourage schools to adopt
programs, strategies and materials that have been researched using rigorous scientific methodology and have
proven to be effective.
Fortunately, the fruits of over 30 years of research on reading, most of it sponsored by the federal government, are
now available. While much of the research focuses on the mechanics of reading, the picture that has emerged makes
a strong case for the use of assistive technology tools such as Kurzweil 3000, or other accommodations, to provide
access to content while students are receiving explicit instruction in decoding, spelling, and writing. In fact, without
this type of accommodation, it becomes almost impossible for struggling readers to catch up academically.
This report provides research validation for the use of assistive technology like Kurzweil 3000 as an important
accommodation for struggling students.
The main research findings are summarized below and are followed by a detailed review of the research
presented in two parts.
- Part I cites research studies that support the use of tools such as Kurzweil 3000 in the classroom.
- Part II cites research studies that show how specific features of Kurzweil 3000 support important aspects of the reading and learning process.
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