Fast ForWord Family of Programs^TM

^{By Scientific Learnining}

Based on over 25 years of research Fast ForWord's 12 software programs target language and reading skills.  Aurora provides this interactive technology to help your child develop critical thinking, listening and reading skills that are necessary for success in the classroom, the workplace and everyday life.  Aurora has been a leading provider of the Fast ForWord programs since 1998 and we regularly measure 1-3 years of progress in the areas of language. auditory processing and/or reading after completion of the programs.

The Fast ForWord family of reading intervention products develops brain processing efficiency through intensive, adaptive software exercises. Fast ForWord computer-delivered software offers tested, real-world results for educators and specialists around the globe.

Fast ForWord software is designed for K-12 education institutions and clinical specialists worldwide whose students are reading below grade level.

Fast ForWord software develops and strengthens memory, attention, processing rate, and sequencing-the cognitive skills essential for learning and reading success. The strengthening of these skills results in a wide range of improved critical language and reading skills such as phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, decoding, working memory, syntax, grammar, and other skills necessary to learn how to read or to become a better reader.

Fast ForWord® evolved from the work of noted research scientists Michael Merzenich and Bill Jenkins from the University of California at San Francisco, and Paula Tallal and Steven Miller, experts on the neurological basis of language at Rutgers University. Merzenich and Jenkins are internationally known for their research in the science of brain plasticity, which is the concept that the brain changes as people learn new skills. Brain plasticity has been instrumental in understanding improved learning strategies for children with language and reading problems. More specifically, that adaptive training techniques such as frequency, reward, intensity and motivation allow for more rapid learning.

The collaboration of Merzenich, Jenkins, Tallal and Miller resulted in a key finding, that with the help of computers, speech sounds can be altered, reproduced and eventually differentiated by children with language difficulties. Using this technology in an intensive, adaptive training program, or optimal learning environment, the scientists discovered that students can develop a wide range of critical language skills such as phonemic awareness, auditory processing speed, phonological awareness, working memory, syntax, grammar, sequencing and other necessary reading skills.