Category Archives: english language learning

Improving Writing Support

Posted on October 18, 2011 by meritsoftware

According to a new report, there are three effective strategies instructors can employ to improve student writing skills. Published by the Alliance for Excellent Education, the report examines whether formative assessment can improve students’ writing skills and what techniques are … Continue reading →

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3 New English Language Learning Bundles

Posted on July 28, 2011 by meritsoftware

Introducing 3 new suites of its online English language programs. The suites present several of Merit’s popular reading, vocabulary, writing, and grammar programs grouped by level of ability and offered at discounted prices. For information, pricing, tours, and implementation ideas … Continue reading →

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On IBM’s Watson and Educational Technology

Posted on February 23, 2011 by meritsoftware

IBM’s Watson computer recently crushed the competition on the popular game show “Jeopardy.” One can’t help but wonder about the current and future role of technology in education. During the competition Watson was able to access answers to a variety of … Continue reading →

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New Teaching Tips for the Writing Process

Posted on January 15, 2011 by meritsoftware

The web-based editions of the Punch process writing programs were introduced more than two years ago. In that time, many instructors and students have shared with us best practices for using them.  Based on their input we’ve posted new teaching tips … Continue reading →

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Improving Mothers’ Reading Skills May Be Best Way to Boost Children’s Achievement

Posted on November 23, 2010 by meritsoftware

Programs to boost the academic achievement of children from low-income neighborhoods would be more successful if they simultaneously taught reading skills to parents, according to a new large scale research study.

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Surprising Study Habits That Work

Posted on September 20, 2010 by meritsoftware

Common theories and advice for studying can be a disserve to students according to the recent article “Forget What You Know About Good Study Habits.”

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Literacy Improvement in the New Economy

Posted on August 24, 2010 by meritsoftware

As businesses and schools adjust to a slower economy, debate is growing about the need, willingness, and ability to help adults sustain and develop their literacy skills. A recent article in the Calgary Herald highlights different sides of the issue.

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Helping Long Term English Language Learners

Posted on June 29, 2010 by meritsoftware

A newly published report claims that English-language learners academic progress is jeopardized because of flaws in California’s English-language programs.

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Poor grammar haunts college students

Posted on May 25, 2010 by meritsoftware

Almost one third of students are failing a requirement at an Ontario university that they pass an exam on English language skills.  The failure rate has jumped five percentage points in the past few years.

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Investing in Innovation (i3) Grant Final Guidelines

Posted on March 15, 2010 by meritsoftware

The U.S. Department of Education released its final guidelines for the $650 million Investing in Innovation (i3) grants.

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