The Student Achievement in Reading (STAR): FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the research base upon which STAR is built?

STudent Achievement in Reading (STAR) is a comprehensive tool kit and training package built upon evidence-based reading instructional strategies that adult education teachers and administrators can use to increase reading achievement. STAR will help improve reading outcomes among intermediate-level adult learners so that they can succeed in the workplace as well as in their daily lives.

STAR is not a reading curriculum. It is a reading reform initiative that includes professional development, tools, and resources that will expand participants' knowledge of effective reading instruction and improve their ability to build local and state adult basic education systems that support reading improvement.

Through STAR, adult education reading instructors and administrators will:

understand the elements of evidence-based reading instruction;
identify necessary resources including: staff, time, materials, space, and feedback mechanisms; and
develop systems and procedures at the classroom, program, and state levels that support the implementation of evidence-based practices and make systemic changes to sustain evidence-based reading instruction.

What is STAR?

STAR is based on a body of research that is summarized in a report published by the Partnership for Reading entitled, Research-based Principles for Adult Basic Education Reading Instruction written by John Kruidenier. STAR supports evidence-based reading instruction which integrates the research found in the above report with practitioner wisdom. STAR also uses the Adult Reading Components Study to identify learner profiles for intermediate-level readers in Adult Basic Education programs. To learn more about these reports visit the Reading Resources section of this Web site at http://www.startoolkit.org/reading.html.

I am interested in reading more about STAR, what do you recommend?

If you are interested in learning more about the research base for STAR, or what we know about how to teach reading effectively, you can visit the section of the site called Reading Resources. Here you will find links to additional research reports and organizations who are working to improve reading instruction. If you are interested in learning more about STAR implementation we recommend that you visit the section called Ready, Set, STAR. In this section you will find tools and resources that you help you consider what you need to do to prepare for STAR implementation.

Who developed the STAR Tool Kit and training?

The STAR Tool Kit was developed by Dr. Mary Beth Curtis and the training components were developed by the Laura Bercovitz and Laurie Martin at the Adult Learning Resource Center. Jane Meyer of Canton City Schools contributed to the technical assistance components. DTI staff developed the online version of the Tool Kit, which includes the video demonstration clips.

Is this a family literacy effort?

No, this is a professional development and training initiative for implementing evidence-based reading instruction with intermediate-level adult basic education learners. We would recommend for family literacy resources and information that you talk to our state director or visit the National Center for Family Literacy Web site at www.famlit.org.

Can I use STAR in my ESL program?

The STAR Tool Kit was developed for use with intermediate-level adult learners - adults whose reading scores on the TABE, CASAS, or ABLE fall between the 4th and 8th grade-levels. Some English Language Learners who enroll in your program may fall in this skill level and could be placed in a STAR class with other intermediate adult readers. Be advised that the Tool Kit was not designed specifically for ESL classes, which have unique instructional requirements.

I am a program and really want to talk to another program about what STAR was like for them, who can I call?

The National STAR Training Network Staff will put you in touch with teachers and administrators who are eager to share their STAR experiences. Send an email to Projectstar@dtihq.com introducing yourself and describing what you would like to learn about STAR.

What planning tools do you have that I can use to help me make some informed decisions?

If you are considering STAR, you should contact your state director with any questions or concerns. You may also want to review the issue papers on the Ready for STAR section of the Web site. These issue papers explore some of the characteristics of a program that allows for successful implementation, and will provide guidance on what programmatic changes you may want to consider before or during implementation.

How do I choose classes to participate in STAR?

Reading the issue papers on the Ready for STAR section of the Web site may be helpful in determining which classes are best suited for STAR. In general, we have found that leveled classes where enrollment is managed provides an ideal environment for successfully implementing STAR. You may also want to review the guidelines on selecting local program sites that are posted in the Ready, Set, STAR page. (See Step 7: Select your STAR Sites.)

Who do I contact for STAR training?

To inquire about participating in STAR training, please contact the National STAR Training Network at 1- 866-691-STAR (7827) or projectstar@dtihq.com.