USI debuts new Literacy Center in Rice Library

The University of Southern Indiana's Teacher Education Program unveiled a new Literacy Center in Rice Library. The new area, intended to be a flexible and interactive learning space, will host seven classes this Fall, including a night class which focuses on broadening clinical experiences in reading instruction for teacher education students. Rebecca Moore, Reading Coordinator, was also hired to develop curriculum, teach literacy courses using the Science of Reading Approach and oversee and assist with all aspects of the transition to the Science of Reading. Both were funded by a $1 million grant from the Lily Endowment Inc., aiming to improve literacy in the state of Indiana.

USI is one of 28 Indiana colleges and universities receiving grants from Lilly Endowment to support efforts integrating Science of Reading-aligned principles into teacher preparation programs. The Science of Reading, as defined in statute (IC 20-18-2-17.5) and encompasses explicit, systematic inclusion of five essential components: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. Supported by evidence, it informs the development of proficient reading and writing, addresses difficulties students face and guides effective assessment and teaching methods. Successful implementation leads to increased student competency in phonemic awareness, phonics, reading fluency, vocabulary development, oral language skills, reading comprehension and writing/spelling.

As a result of the statute, USI's Teacher Education curriculum had to be revised across three majors and two minors to incorporate the Science of Reading components to better equip prospective P-12 teachers. "These courses aim to prepare our preservice teachers for the IDOE Reading Endorsement requirements," says Moore. "We are dedicated to working toward effective teacher preparation and success. We have carefully aligned our course objectives with state and national standards to ensure a comprehensive curriculum."

To further enhance our program, the center integrated sophisticated simulation software offering live avatars for interactive learning. It utilizes a blend of AI and human-in-the-loop technology to create authentic, challenging and dynamic interpersonal simulations. These simulations are designed to mimic the typical challenges faced in a real-world teaching environment, from classroom management to student interactions. After each simulation, the platform provides instant feedback on the candidates' performance through a live avatar. Additionally, instructors can review these simulated sessions and offer targeted feedback, pinpointing areas of strengths and opportunities for improvement.

The Literacy Center is the only one of its kind in the state of Indiana and offers many invaluable experiences for prospective P-12 teachers. "By providing essential resources and hands-on experiences, we are equipping teachers with practical skills that will prepare them to teach these new methods," says Dr. Tori Colson, Assistant Dean of the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education. "Our hope is that the Literacy Center helps us continue to produce high quality teacher candidates who excel in today's classroom."

For more information about USI's Teacher Education program, visit USI.edu/teachered.