Improving Literacy through action
Are you looking for pragmatic, action-oriented, and creative experts who are not afraid of a thorny problem in education?
About Us
Who are the Literacy Docs?
The Literacy Docs, Katherine, Tracey and Erin, are three former literacy/ELA teachers with Ph.D.’s in Education, who share a passion for teacher and school development to ultimately help students (both young and adult) read, write and learn better. The three of us have worked together for over a decade in many capacities including consulting, research, co-authoring, professional development, assessment development, university teaching, Reading Clinics, and coaching. Between the three of us, we have over 100 publications related to reading and writing improvement, motivation research and assessment development. Nonetheless, our team is not built on a hierarchy; we are truly a collaborative and agile unit. We function together and will bring the best of each of our unique talents and experience in a coordinated process and product.
OUr SuperPowers
- Translation. Although we can speak in educational jargon with the best of them, we also know how to “talk research” with children, parents, teachers and administrators. We believe that research alone is powerless because for research to have value it must always be translated and adapted to the potential users. One of our goals is to be a bridge between the research and the different stakeholders in education.
- Data Experts. Like research, data only has value when we can use it to inform our practices and decisions. We are highly skilled in pragmatic forms of data analysis and interpretation - qualitative, quantitative and creative mix-methods. Our recommendations and analysis first and foremost are predicated on actionable steps. We won't tell you "you need to increase literacy scores" (you likely already know that). We are more likely to say, "providing daily read-alouds based on student interests will increase engagement and literacy scores".
- Assessments and Measurement. Often our clients are seeking a certain type of data or knowledge but don’t know how to get it. We are experienced at both locating and adapting validated measures to meet your needs. And, when needed, also in developing new assessments to fill a specific need. We have developed and published X measures in total, (Tracey n = 6; Erin n = 4 -( including Rachel’s dissertation); Katherine n = ?) and are knowledgeable about how to construct high quality measures to fit your needs. That means, we won't use outdated or inappropriate measures. Instead, we can design and fit measures that meet your specific needs and you can be assured that they are high-quality and appropriate. Better measures = better data.
- Breadth. We have experience in teaching and supporting teachers from Kindergarten through the Graduate School, in the both the US and abroad. In fact, we would argue that the fundamental needs of the learners (such as personal connections, engagement, autonomy, need to see progress), while looking different on the surface, are remarkably similar across age groups. Our wide experience allows us to understand both horizontal alignment of goals (across the specific grades as well as vertical alignment (i.e., what we do in early elementary influences high-education success).
- Coaching & Support. Our work does not need to end in a report. If desired, we have the capacity to provide ongoing support in the form of coaching - individual coaching, group coaching or team coaching. For example, simply getting a grant to support your organization is a great first step. However, having team coaching will ensure that your opportunity is maximized, goals are met, and the teams is working effectively together.
