HIT:raising test scores

[Linda Rosendahl <rosendah@ARGO.NET>]

Thanks to the many kind people who replied about articles on the correlation
between school library/media centers and raising reading test scores. (Also
thanks for several ideas on helping my blind cocker spaniel!)  One
respondent requested a HIT, so here are the suggestions I've received so far:

You might want to get the book _The Impact of School Library Media Centers
on Academic Achievement_ by Keith Lance and others.  It was published in
1993 and can be ordered from Libraries Unlimited  (800)237-6124.  It
includes a huge bibliography and is based on a study done in Colorado.
The results and conclusions are just what you need I think.  Good luck.
Nothing worse than having to educate the educators! ;-)
*****
Stephen Krashen at University of Southern California has done research for
many years in this area. He has written books and articles about the
connection between libraries and reading scores. I think ine book is titled-
The Power of Reading.
*****
On reading scores, contact Accelerated Reader.  They of course want
to sell software, but they have lots of information on how their program
raises test scores.   Some of that information is related to how
lots of reading by itself raises scores, and reading is a primary
library function.
*****
there is documented research
called the Colorado Study. Also there is a video about it. I hope someone
on the list will give you the particulars.
*****
I just received a copy of an article that documents increased student
achievement with strong library media programs in an enriched environment.
 It is:
 Loertscher, David. "Objective: Achievement /Solution: School Libraries,"
     School Library Journal, (May 1993)p. 30-33.*
Two studies are cited that demonstrate that enriched programs mean increased
achievement; basically students read more when there is more material to read
and they have access to it.
      It makes sense to me.  New Hampshire has instituted statewide testing
at grade levels three, six, and ten.  When scores have been reported in the
papers, I have noticed a direct correlation between those school districts
whose students have scored higher on the tests and the amount of money
dedicated to the library media center.  The more resources available, the
better the students do.
*****
Don't know of any specific articles, but would check ERIC re: research on
the values of libraries vs. just classrooms.  The biggest trick to improving
reading scores is to TEACH READING not just expect it to happen...and keep
libraries around...all seems like a no-brainer to me, which is why I have
often thought administrators were failed teachers who had risen to thelevel
of their incompetence...
*****
Linda Rosendahl
Lynn English High School Library
50 Goodridge St.
Lynn, MA  01907

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