Boost Reading Efficacy: Evaluating the Impact of a Widely Used, Supplemental, Digital Reading Program on Elementary School Literacy

In this study, the researchers will evaluate the impact of a widely used supplemental digital reading program (Boost Reading) in grades 2 through 5. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in use of educational technology programs to accelerate learning, particularly in reading. However, there is limited research on the efficacy of these programs in general and for subgroups of underserved students. Additionally, there is little research on the variability of effects based on engagement with the programs, and there is insufficient information on the cost-effectiveness of the programs. To address these research gaps, the team will examine whether the program is effective for subgroups of underserved students and the extent to which variability in effects can be explained by patterns of usage. They will also estimate the cost-effectiveness of the program relative to a traditional e-reader program.