Project iSTAR: An Integrated Strategic Technology-based Adaptive wRiting Program
About the Project
Project iSTAR is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into an existing technology-based writing program designed for adolescents with disabilities (ASWDs). As part of the Strategic Instruction Model's (SIM™) programs to improve outcomes for ASWDs, iSTAR is providing ASWDs, their teachers, and their families web-based access to engaging, evidence-based writing instructional support that provides quick, ongoing feedback and adapts based on ASWD’s learning needs, preferences, interests, and contexts. Long-term outcomes include gains in ASWD scores on local writing measures, improved family-school engagement in writing skill development, broad use of iSTAR throughout the U.S., and supported sustainability through SIM professional development (PD) support and micro-credentialing. Design-based implementation research (DBIR) processes are guiding iterative development. By the end of Year 5, iSTAR will impact more than 10 schools across the U.S., an average of 40 teachers serving approximately 160 ASWDs. A detailed logic model, management plan, and evaluation plan ensures the team makes continuous progress toward providing quality products and services for ASWDs, their teachers, leaders, and families.
Contact simpd@ku.edu for more information.
Teachers in grades 6-9, fill out this form if you're interested in participating in testing the iSTAR digital platform in Year 3.
iSTAR is a digital platform to support teachers implementing these two SIM Writing Strategies:
Thank you to all of our project partners including: Fauquier High School (VA), Columbia Falls Jr. High (MT), Mographworks, d3center at the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan, Betaflix, and our advisory board members.
Researchers
Suzanne Elizabeth Myers, Ed.D.
Co-Director of the KU Center for Research on Learning & Assistant Research Professor
Jocelyn Washburn, Ph.D.
Co-Director of the KU Center for Research on Learning, Director of Professional Development & Assistant Research Professor
Contents of this website were developed under a US Department of Education, OSEP Stepping-Up Technology Implementation Education Grant H327S240011. However, these contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the US Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government.
Project Officer, Anita Vermeer
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