Educator Preparation Programs

Preparing Future Educators for Evidence-Aligned Reading Instruction

Educator preparation programs play a critical role in ensuring future teachers enter the profession with the knowledge and skills needed to support successful reading outcomes for all students. As the scientific evidence base around reading development and instruction has grown, many educator preparation programs have begun strengthening coursework and clinical experiences to better align with the science of reading.

Historically, however, pre-service teachers have not always received sufficient preparation in evidence-aligned reading instruction. In some cases, this reflects what researchers have described as the “Peter Effect”—the idea that individuals cannot teach knowledge and skills they do not themselves possess. When faculty members and course instructors have limited exposure to the science of reading, future educators may leave preparation programs without a strong understanding of the instructional practices that support the development of skilled reading.

Reviews conducted by the National Council on Teacher Quality continue to show that some educator preparation programs include coursework and instructional approaches that are not aligned with the scientific evidence base. Encouragingly, many faculty members and program leaders are actively building their knowledge and updating coursework to reflect current research.

Continuing this progress is essential. By integrating evidence-aligned practices throughout educator preparation programs, institutions can help future educators develop the professional knowledge necessary to recognize, prevent, and address reading difficulties while providing effective instruction for all learners.

NEW! Learn how your Educator Preparation Program can partner with The Reading League

Transforming to Align With the Science of Reading: Important Considerations

Educator preparation programs (EPPs) are shifting to teach pre-service educators about the science of reading and evidence-aligned literacy instruction. During this transition, it’s essential that EPPs hire or retain knowledgeable instructors, provide ongoing faculty training, and update program content and syllabi. The Reading League supports EPPs during this process with resources to guide sustainable change.