Explicit, One-to-one instruction

The StudyDog lessons follow a simple, but effective, learning model based on continuous evaluation and assessment. Explicit instruction is included at the beginning of each lesson and provided throughout each lesson and always includes instruction, modeling and practice. Effective reading instruction includes continuous progress assessment to guide instruction. Once instruction has begun, every instructional device has a built-in assessment system to monitor the progress and needs of a child. Based on the results of systematic assessments, StudyDog is able to determine what material to review and can guide the pace of instruction in direct response to the strengths and weaknesses of each individual student.

Included with instruction is concrete modeling of the skill the lesson is teaching. This modeling includes how the child uses the skill and how the lesson device works. The child has the opportunity to practice the skill. Throughout the practice, StudyDog records and analyzes every response the child makes. If the child provides a wrong response, StudyDog indicates the answer was wrong and gives the child a second chance. If the child still does not get the correct response, instructional guidance is given and the child gets a third chance. If the child response with a wrong answer on the third attempt, the specific practice item becomes part of the item-review pool and is repeated at the end of the lesson. Students must achieve at least 80 percent mastery to move to the next lesson. This process of error detection and reinstruction provides each child with the time and practice they need to master each specific skill.

The lessons have animated, engaging characters and an overall story-adventure. The children are drawn into the lessons by the interesting activities and settings on Lost Island. The students receive frequent encouragement and help when they need it. The children's earn rewards, Lost Island coins that they exchange for prizes they receive in the mail, for their performances. The coins have encouraged children to replay many lessons and earn the coins they missed the first time they tried the lesson. This practice, as well as work on new lessons, greatly enhances the learning experience of each child.