Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

Availability

Open Access Dissertation

Keywords

Reading--Aids and devices; Visual training; Color vision;

Abstract

This study investigated the effects on students identified with Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome (SSS) or Irlen Syndrome (IS) when using colored overlays as an intervention (immediately and over time) to assess reading performance (rate, accuracy, and comprehension); to measure visual-motor integration; and to assess attitude toward reading. SSS/IS is a visual perceptual problem related to a collection of symptoms that affects an individual's performance when reading. Three participants, all males (one 3rd -grade student, one 4th -grade student, and one 5th -grade student), were identified as having SSS/IS and other learning disabilities.

The study involved five test instruments (Irlen Reading Perceptual Scale, Qualitative Reading Inventory-4, Running Records, Visual Motor Integration, and Elementary Reading Attitude Survey), using pre- and post tests combined with a single-subject Alternating Treatment Design (ATD). Data were analyzed qualitatively through visual analysis of tables, line graphs, and bar graphs.

While this study showed inconsistent and mixed results for the use of colored overlays, there were some interesting positive effects in the area of attitude toward reading and in immediate effects on rate and accuracy. Results were inconclusive on the long term effects of the use of colored overlays over time. The lack of consistent results in this study suggests that there is not a clear clinical significance for the use of colored overlays.

Year of Submission

2009

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

Department of Special Education

First Advisor

Leigh E. Zeitz, Committee Co-Chair

Second Advisor

Deborah L. Tidwell, Committee Co-Chair

Date Original

12-2009

Object Description

1 PDF file (xiv, 244 pages)

Language

en

File Format

application/pdf

Download

Comments?

Share

COinS