Improving Understanding of Science Texts: iSTART Strategy Training vs. a Web Design Control Task

Scientific literacy is a critical skill that requires the ability to deeply comprehend difficult scientific concepts. However, comprehending science texts is often a challenge for low-knowledge readers. This research assessed the effectiveness of an automated reading strategy training program (iSTART) to improve comprehension for low-knowledge students. Eighty-four high school students were either trained to use iSTART or they were given instruction on how to design science web pages (i.e., control). Following a several month delay after training it was found that the students in the iSTART condition comprehended more from a science text than students in the control condition.