Central OC Times

The University of California, Irvine (UCI) is advancing literacy education across the United States through its Pathway Project. Developed by Professor Emerita Carol Booth Olson from UCI's School of Education, the project is part of the UCI Writing Project and employs a cognitive strategies approach to enhance reading and writing skills among students.

The Pathway Project focuses on providing professional development for English language arts and English language development teachers. It equips them with "thinking tools" to help students, especially those in high-needs schools and mainstreamed English learners, become strategic readers and analytical writers.

In collaboration with UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education (DCE), the School of Education has expanded this initiative to offer online professional development courses. This partnership leverages DCE’s expertise in instructional design and technology, making research-based literacy training accessible nationwide.

Research indicates that the Pathway Project has significantly improved students’ writing skills and academic performance. An eight-year longitudinal study and several randomized controlled trials show that students involved in the project consistently outperform their peers in writing assessments and state exams. The success of these studies has supported the expansion of the project through a national literacy network.

Feedback from educators who have participated in the program has been positive. They highlight the effectiveness of cognitive strategies in enhancing students' reading and writing abilities. Huy Chung, Project Scientist for the UCI Writing Project, noted: “As our national scale-up grant winds down, we envision focusing on preserving Pathway and Carol’s legacy through local and national efforts."

Joshua Weston, Program Manager from UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education, emphasized: “We are excited to play a key role in extending the reach of UCI School of Education’s research." He added that transforming research into accessible professional development for educators nationwide has been an honor.

For more information about the program or collaborations, interested parties can contact Dr. Huy Q. Chung via email or visit www.ucipathwayproject.com.

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