Using iBook Features to Support English Language Learners and Struggling Readers

Abstract

Technology can play an important role in the development of reading fluency. Taking notes, recording brainstorm sessions, peer-reviewing, and publishing are all skills that support students in becoming academically literate for advanced schooling. This descriptive case study explored the use of the iBook application and features that come standardly loaded on the iPad device to improve reading comprehension and enhance student engagement. The results indicate that several features of the iBook application, such as word definitions, the notetaking tool, and Wikipedia searches, among others, were highly valuable for instructional purposes.