Using Integrated Learning Systems in the K12 Classroom: What I recommend and why. By Brittney Woodle.

       According to Technology in Education, integrated learning systems, also known as ILS, are software.hardware solutions that designed to deliver instructional content. ILS are often connected to educational atmospheres. These systems are interactive and engaging. They are designed to provide feedback to ensure progress and help students obtain an understanding of the content. An ILS program that I am familiar with is Accelerated Reader. According to the Institute of Education Sciences, Accelerated Reader is an exceptional program for promoting reading comprehension and achievement. Accelerated Reader is a program relies on independent reading practice. This program quizzes students on books that they have read on their own. Accelerated Reader provides both the teacher and the student with feedback from each quiz taken. This program manages and tracks student progress from book to book and recommends the level in which the student should be reading. Studies have shown that this program has a medium to large positive impact on reading comprehension, but little to no effect on reading fluency. Despite the fact that there is no evidence of impact on reading fluency, I think that this program is definitely a step in the right direction for helping our young readers. I am a huge advocate for helping struggling readers, and I think that this program (and a little help from their teachers) may give the students the motivation they need to succeed. I remember taking AR tests as a young girl who struggled with reading. The feedback I would receive gave me the push I needed to strive to be a better reader. I think that this program will do the same for our students today.