School of Education Faculty Member Examines Ways Families Can Improve Learning with eBooks
The article, “Can Dialogic Reading Foster U.S. Parent-Preschooler Spatial Talk During eBook Reading?” was authored by Erica L. Zippert, Zachary D. Stuckelman, Gabriella D. Noreen, Georgene L. Troseth and Strouse.
Researchers tested whether adding conversation-starter prompts to a spatially themed eBook would encourage families to talk more about shapes, sizes and locations. Sixty-three parent-child pairs participated in the study, reading either an enhanced eBook with prompts or a control version without prompts. Families using the enhanced eBook engaged in significantly more spatial talk, focusing on dimensions and locations. In contrast, number-related talk did not increase, suggesting that prompts were most effective when aligned with the book’s spatial themes.
“Spatial language is important for children’s early STEM skill development,” said Strouse. “Our findings show that well-designed eBooks can guide parents and children into using helpful spatial language during shared reading, which may support later success in STEM fields.”
Overall, the research emphasizes the importance of innovative approaches to early childhood education and the role of parents in fostering STEM readiness through everyday interactions. Its impact has been outlined as follows:
- Prior State of Knowledge: Parent-child use of spatial language is associated with stronger spatial skill development. Dialogic reading has been shown to foster literacy and story-related talk.
- Novel Contributions: This study demonstrates that dialogic prompts embedded in spatially themed eBooks increase parent-preschooler spatial talk.
- Practical Implications: The findings highlight that screen media, when thoughtfully designed, can be developmentally supportive. Policymakers and educators should consider not only screen time limits but also the quality and context of children’s digital experiences.
For more information about research initiatives, visit the USD School of Education.
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