Realizing the Promise of Reading Science by Staying the Course: A Conversation Between Dr. Reid Lyon and Dr. Louisa Moats
Dr. Louisa Moats has been a teacher, psychologist, researcher, graduate school faculty member, and author of many influential scientific journal articles, books, and policy papers on the topics of reading, spelling, language, and teacher preparation. Dr. Moats is the author of LANGUAGE! Live®, a blended reading intervention program for grades 5–12, and the lead author of LETRS® professional development and the textbook, Speech to Print: Language Essentials for Teachers. Dr. Moats is also co-author of Spellography, a structured language word study program. Dr. Moats’ awards include the prestigious Samuel T. and June L. Orton award from the International Dyslexia Association® for outstanding contributions to the field; the Eminent Researcher Award from Learning Disabilities Australia; and the Benita Blachman award from The Reading League.
Dr. Reid Lyon is a neuroscientist and specialist in learning disorders. He received his Ph.D. in neuroscience and learning disorders from the University of Mexico in 1978. He joined the faculty of Communication Science and Disorders at Northwestern University in 1980 where he also directed the neuropsychology laboratory.
From 1992 to 2005, Dr. Lyon served as a research neuropsychologist and the chief of the Child Development and Behavior Branch of the NICHD at the National Institutes of Health. In this role, he developed and oversaw research programs in cognitive neuroscience, learning and reading development and disorders, behavioral pediatrics, cognitive and affective development, school readiness, and the Spanish to English Reading Research program. He designed, developed, and directed the 44-site NICHD Reading Research Network. After leaving the NIH, Dr. Lyon held tenured distinguished scientist and distinguished professorships at the University of Texas, Dallas Center for Brain Health (neuroscience) and Southern Methodist University (educational leadership and associate dean, Simmons College of Education and Human Development).
Dr. Lyon is the author and co-author of more than 130 peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and book chapters addressing developmental neuroscience, learning and reading disorders/dyslexia, and the translation of science into practice and policy. He also co-authored the definition of dyslexia used at the NIH and worldwide.
Join us for an enlightening episode of EDVIEW360 Realizing the Promise of Reading Science by Staying the Course, where we bring together two pivotal figures in literacy education, Dr. Reid Lyon and Dr. Louisa Moats. These nationally recognized literacy experts share their invaluable insights about teaching children to read, addressing the intricate balance between what we know and what we practice. They’ll offer their views on progress in the field, and what else needs to happen to ensure widespread implementation of informed teaching that will lead to lasting gains for all students.
During this compelling conversation, Dr. Lyon and Dr. Moats reflect on the progress made in understanding the science of reading, the barriers that still exist in translating replicated
scientific findings into practice, and the solutions required to overcome these barriers. They delve into the complexities of decision-making in education, emphasizing the need for informed, evidence-based practices. Despite significant advancements, they acknowledge the ongoing gap in teacher knowledge and training, calling for a clinical model that fosters mentorship, collaboration, and feedback based on the development and implementation of a common professional language.
Listeners will gain an understanding of Dr. Lyon's “10 Maxims” of practice derived from research as well as the basis for Dr. Moats's “speech to print” approach to instruction. The discussion will also highlight successful programs and initiatives that are paving the way for a brighter future in literacy education.
This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about closing the gap between literacy research and practice. Tune in to be inspired and equipped with actionable strategies to advance literacy and give every child the confidence and right to read.
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