A study of the use of software related to phonic skills as part of the literacy programme in the infant department of a primary school in East Trinidad.

Abstract

Research abounds on the importance of phonic development as an integral aspect of reading success as well as the use of technology in schools for the promotion of key reading skills. This study focuses on the use of existing phonic software in a primary school as part of the literacy programme. It utilizes a mixed method approach to closely examine the responses of participants through careful observation of interactions with existing software in a prepared environment. The findings reveal that the software has a positive motivational impact on the majority of participants in the study. Coupled with this, the findings highlight the need for collaborative planning among staff members for proper assessment of phonic development. The findings of the study can provide some direction with respect to planning of the literacy curriculum for this and similar schools in the district.