The effect of the PowerTouchTM learning system toy on emergent literacy skills

by Wilson, Judith Ann.

THE EFFECT OF THE POWERTOUCHTM LEARNING SYSTEM TOY ON EMERGENT LITERACY SKILLS By Judith Ann Wilson This thesis reports on a study of the effects of a technology enhanced toy on emergent literacy skills of young children. The effects of a technology enhanced toy on emergent literacy skills were assessed with Head Start children in a Midwestern state. Forty-one children were randomly assigned to the technology enhanced toy, PowerTouchTM Learning System, or literacybooks. Each participated in weekly 25 minute sessions over a period of six weeks. The Test of Early Reading-Third Edition assessed emergent literacy skills including alphabet knowledge, conventions of print, and construction of meaning. There were no significant findings regarding an increase inliteracy skills. More time was spent by the technology enhanced toy group than the books only group in the sessions.